Florence Foster Cornatzer Stroud

Florence Foster Cornatzer Stroud, age 93, passed away on Monday, February 3, 2025. Born in Davie County, NC, on October 19, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Ray Cornatzer and Nannie Evelyn Foster Cornatzer. She was also preceded in death by her husband David Roscoe “Rocky” Stroud, Jr.; her son David Stuart Stroud; and her sister, Lena Grey Cornatzer Haire.

Florence, known to her family as “Dee” was a vibrant woman and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. For many years, she ran an antique and estate jewelry store with her best friend and sister, Lena, in Mocksville, NC. After losing her beloved husband, Rocky, in 1980, Florence—always industrious and self-reliant—acquired and managed real estate investments with her business partner and friend Hal Fryar.

Florence was involved in the community, serving the local chapters of both the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society. She was a gifted pianist and attended Greensboro Women’s College for music. She was also a talented gardener and loved flowers. Florence lived a full and active life—skiing with family and friends at Beech Mountain, NC, and taking daily walks with her dog Deucey. She will be dearly missed by all those who knew her.

Florence is survived by her children, Steven Stroud of Cuenca, Ecuador; Susan Barker and husband Allan of Wrightsville Beach, NC; William Stroud and wife Martha of Rocky Mount. She is also survived by her grandchildren Foster Barker (Rachel), Wesley Barker (Richard Davis), Cameron Barker (Caitlin), David R. Stroud (Anna), Chase Stroud O’Geary (Nick), William Stuart Stroud (Anne-Hunter); and her great-grandchildren, Adelaide Barker, Stuart and Meyer Barker, and Hallie O’Geary.

The family would also like to express heartfelt gratitude to Marylin Smith for the loving care and companionship that she extended to Dee in her last years.

A Graveside Service to celebrate Florence’s life will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Pineview Cemetery. Visitation with the family will follow the service at the home of William and Martha Stroud.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Tunnel to Towers charity.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.