Jesse Fountain Braxton

Jesse Fountain Braxton, age 70, of Ft. Barnwell, North Carolina passed away on Monday, December 18, 2023. Known by family and friends as "Jeff," he was known for his generosity and vibrant personality. He loved to drag race, hunt, and fish as well as listen to beach music, play pool and spend time with his family. In his younger years, he served honorably in the U.S. Air Force before returning home to work in farming and truck driving. His family and friends will miss his multitude of knowledge and OPINIONS on various subjects.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Dixon and Susie Braxton; sisters, Carol Cox and Nancy Gore; brother, Bill Newell.

He is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Veronica Braxton of the home; his children, Jessie Lynn Coward and Michael Coward, Steven and Ashley Coward, and Susie Jo Braxton Thornton and Mike; grandchildren, Jacob Coward, Isaac Coward, Eric Coward, Ashland Coward, Michael-John Thornton, Lucas Thornton; great grandchildren, Everleigh Ann Coward, David Thornton, Paisleigh Thornton, and Kinsleigh Thornton; step-great granddaughter, Addison Rand; and nephew, Elbert Ryan Jolly.

The family will receive friends from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at Cotten Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow the time of visitation, beginning at 7:30 p.m. with Pastors Brent Manning and John Allen Coward officiating. He will be laid to rest at Westview Cemetery in Kinston in a private ceremony on Friday, December 22, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jeff's name to West Vanceboro Church of God or Highland Park Christian Church.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Patricia Foye of "Our House Caregivers" for the loving care she provided to Jeff during his last days.

Arrangements are in the care of Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory.