Mrs. Essie Dial Jones of 207 Wellon St., of Pembroke, NC vacated her earthly home for her Heavenly Home on January 11, 2026. Mrs. Jones was born October 13, 1935, in Robeson County to her parents, Mr. Richard Arthur and Mrs. Lena Jacobs Dial.

Mrs. Jones attended the public schools of Robeson County and graduated in 1953. She was invited by the late Dr. English Jones to continue her education at then Pembroke State College, and graduate in 1957 with a B.S. Degree in Elementary Education. She furthered her education with East Carolina University and worked for the Public Schools of Robeson County as a teacher and media specialist for 36 years before retiring in 1994. She was a volunteer for 18 years with the Guardian-ad-Litem of Robeson County for neglected and abused children. Children and the elderly were the Love of her Life. “Miss Essie,” as she was affectionately known by the many children in her life kept her going even when it was difficult health wise. She was dedicated to helping anyone that needed help. Mrs. Essie accepted the Lord as her personal Savior at the young age of twelve and served him faithfully all the years of her life.

Mrs. Jones in addition to her parents was preceded in death by five brothers: John W., Warren G., Samuel and Richard Jr. Dial, James C. Dial; one sister Nancy D. Oxendine.

She leaves to cherish her memories her two dear children: Carl Brent Locklear of Lumberton and Robin Royster of Chapel Hill. Six grandchildren: Adrian B. and China Rose Locklear, Sarah, Billy, Madison Locklear Oxendine and Sydney Dever and a host of nieces and nephews, and two very special nieces Diane Jones and Cathy Hammonds; one brother Dr. Woodrow Dial; one sister Ms. Barbara Miller all very dear to her, as well as a host of relatives and friends. Last but not least, two special caregivers: Linda Hunt and Allison Hunt.

Mrs. Jones was an organ donor and will continue to live on in the lives of others. Her motto being, “Lord let me live for others as you have lived for me.”