Obituary: Nicole C. Croom

Nicole C. Croom, 79, of Kinston went to be with her Lord on Monday, February 6, 2023, at UNC Lenoir Health Care. Nicole was predeceased by her husband, Felix Croom, Jr., and her parents, Richard Allen Croom, Libby Tyndall Croom Gatlin, and stepfather Albert “Dock” Gatlin.

Born April 9, 1943, Nicole was a lifelong resident of Lenoir County. She helped her husband on the farm, was known for her cooking abilities, and enjoyed painting bird houses and greeting cards. Nicole had a love for music and enjoyed singing in the choir, attending local concerts, and listening to her favorite CDs. She sacrificed selflessly for her family and loved her Lord, Jesus Christ.

She worked as a church secretary for much of her life, serving Wheat Swamp Christian Church, Gordon Street Christian Church, and Faith Fellowship Church. She and her husband were instrumental in establishing Faith Fellowship Church, where she served faithfully until her health declined.

Nicole had a gift for making people feel loved and accepted. After a conversation with you, she would know where you were from, who your family was, and any concerns you had in your life. She truly listened to people and could recall the information you gave her as if you were part of her immediate family. This gift endeared her to many people over the years and assisted several pastors in relating to their parishioners and their extended families.

She is survived by her children, Felix Croom III (Jane) of Ft. Barnwell, and Diane Croom Andersen (Charles) of LaGrange. She also leaves behind her beloved grandsons Austin Croom (Abby) of Alexandria, VA, and William Andersen of LaGrange, brother Larry Croom (Polly), nephew Larry Croom, Jr. (Gloria), step-sisters Annette Pickard (Joseph), Mary Wade (David), and Linda Deyton (Randall), and several nieces and nephews. She had many special friends and adopted family members, as well as many faithful canine family members through the years.

A celebration of Nicole’s life will be held on Saturday, March 4, at 11:00 a.m., at Faith Fellowship Church, with visitation following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Faith Fellowship Building Fund, 2278 Pauls Path Rd, Kinston, NC 28504.