Jean "Nenny" Howell Usery

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jean "Nenny" Howell Usery, who left us peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at the age of 89. Madeline was born on August 11, 1936, in Mitchell County to the late John Thomas and Minnie Buchanan Howell.

Jean was a lifelong member of Woodlawn Baptist Church in Lowell where she was a Sunday School teacher. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy. She loved working in her beautiful yard with her flowers. She was a master gardener. She loved to witness to people at work and at Walmart.

She is survived by her children, Charles "Joel" Usery, Ginger Cox (Joey), Patti McKissick (Ronnie), Kevin Usery (Cissy); grandchildren, Lindsay Wood (Grant), Phillip Wood, Brandon Usery (Kenzie), Makayla Dills (Coby), Emily Grace McKissick; great-grandchildren, Maevery Usery, Beckett Usery, Kainin Potter, Lennon Dills; special friend, Joyce Grant; numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her loving husband, Charles Tillman Usery; brother, Roy Howell; five sisters, Naomi, Dot, Helen, Lillian, with the last one being her twin sister Jo.

We invite friends and family to join us in celebrating her life and the impact she made on those around her. A graveside service officiated by Reverend Randy Summitt, will be held Thursday, April 2, 2026, 1:00 PM, at Gaston Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: Alzheimer's Association - Western Carolina Chapter, 4600 Park Road, Suite 250, Charlotte, NC 28215

Jean's warmth, kindness, and strength will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Let's come together to remember the love and joy she brought into our lives. Condolences may be shared online at: www.greenefuneral.com.