Willistine Manning Pridgen

Rocky Mount – Willistine Manning Pridgen, age 87, passed away on July 6, 2025.  Born in Nash County, NC on October 27, 1937, she was the daughter of the late James Willis Manning and Edith Vick Manning Carden.  She was also preceded in death by her brother, Edward Moses Manning.

A woman of great faith, Willistine was a member of West Mount Baptist Church for over 20 years.  A devoted caretaker and nurse, she began her nursing career at Parkview Hospital before transferring to Nash General Hospital in 1971 and retiring as an Operating Room Supervisor in 1995.  A talented and gifted artist, Willistine enjoyed painting, drawing, working with ceramics, photography, and making a variety of jewelry.  In her spare time, she especially enjoyed being on the water fishing and visiting the coast with her family.  A loving and devoted wife and mother, Willistine will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Willistine is survived by her husband of 63 years, Johnie Earl Pridgen, Sr.; her son, Johnie Earl Pridgen, Jr. and his wife, Janet; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dearest friends.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Willistine’s life will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Ave., Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with Rev. Wray Wheeless officiating.  Burial will follow the service at Oakdale Cemetery in Spring Hope.  Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Willistine’s name to West Mount Baptist Church, 8487 West Mount Dr., Rocky Mount, NC 27803.

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.