James Nelson Corpening

James Nelson "Pinky" Corpening, age 75, of Lenoir, North Carolina passed away on Thursday, September 21, 2023. He was born in Lenoir to the late Charles and Ruby Corpening. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy Corpening and his brothers Charles Corpening, Jr., Venoi Corpening, and Humphrey Corpening.

Pinky is survived by his children Camryn Smith (husband Ernest), Marlowe Scrivens (wife Deidra), LaSheka Johnson, and Monique Starling, his sister Natalie Johnson (husband Ronald "Sock Man"), his grandchildren Courtney Smith, Erika Smith-Punches, Cassandra Smith, Ernest Smith, Jr., Miracle Scrivens, George Scrivens, DeAndre Johnson, Michelle Johnson, Anye Johnson, Shawn Starling, Jasmine Starling, and Isaiah Paige, his ex-wife Camilla Lawrence (mother of Camryn), along with great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Pinky was a recent member of New Passion Church in Lenoir and he was a former member of the Kingdom Hall in Charlotte. He was a man of many talents. Pinky was talented in physical education, he was a star athlete at North Carolina Central University, and a dedicated member of Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity Incorporated. At Hudson High School, Pinky was a star running back. He also was a graduate of North Carolina Central University, with a Bachelor degree in physical education. During his career, he enjoyed many professions. He was director over Mountain View Recreation Center in Morganton, he taught both physical education and driver's education in the area, he had a long career as a craftsman in woodworking and floor refinishing, which is a legacy passed down from his father. He also was a clothing designer for a period of time and was highlighted on WBTV featuring his designs.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 12:00 PM at Pendry's Lenoir Funeral Home, 522 Wilkesboro Blvd SE, Lenoir, NC 28645. Pastor Sherry Hicks will be officiating.

The family will receive friends for one hour prior, from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM, at Pendry's Lenoir Funeral Home.

Pendry's Lenoir Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of James Nelson Corpening.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pendrysfuneralhome.com for the Corpening family.