Jacksonville, NC, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the age of 93. She was surrounded by the love and care of her devoted family, just as she had surrounded them with love every day of her long and beautiful life.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Eleanor's life will be held on Monday, June 2 at Pineland Presbyterian Church. The family will receive visitors at the church beginning at 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m. A committal service and burial will take place on Tuesday, June 3 at 11:00 a.m. at Onslow Memorial Park.

Born on September 10, 1931, in Maple Hill, NC, Eleanor was the cherished daughter of Bruster and Flora Lanier. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 70 years, Leamon Wooten, and her brother, Carlton Lanier (Peggy). She is survived by her daughters, Shirley Evans (Terry) and Ronda Mills, both of Jacksonville, NC; her beloved grandchildren, Kimberly Mack (Layne) of Wilmington, NC, Samantha Mao (Yuxuan) of Richmond, VA, Matthew Evans (Haley) of Wilmington, NC, and Rachel Coleman (Chris) of Leland, NC; and her adored great-grandchildren, Fiona Mack, Oliver Coleman, Kyra Coleman, and Paxton Mao. She also leaves behind her siblings Alton Lanier, Barden Lanier (Phoebe), and Faye Russ (John).

Eleanor spent nearly her entire life by Leamon's side, their bond a testament to enduring love. Into their 90s, they remained active, social, and inseparable. Since Leamon's passing nearly two years ago, Eleanor carried his memory with her each day.

Family was at the heart of everything Eleanor did. She found immense joy in being surrounded by her loved ones—children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings. Her love was expressed in countless ways, but perhaps most memorably through her incredible cooking. Holidays and regular days alike were made special by dishes like chicken and pastry, ham and biscuits, corn soup, fried chicken, and her delicious pies. Her grandchildren fondly joked she should have opened a restaurant called "Mema's Kitchen," a name that captured both her skill and her warmth.

Her home was a sanctuary, made beautiful by her green thumb and her love of nature. Colorful flowers and whimsical birdhouses adorned her yard, and whether you were sitting in her gazebo or sharing a drink in her garage, time with Eleanor was always a blessing. Her fridge was never empty, her heart always full—and her favorite treat, "Wooten Wine" (Mountain Dew), was chilled and ready for guests.

Eleanor loved long rides, heartfelt conversations, shopping trips, and any reason to gather those she cared about. She never missed a birthday, calling each loved one to sing a sweet rendition of "Happy Birthday to You." She brought joy through the little things—her signature leopard print, her holiday decorations, and the sound advice she so freely gave.

Her legacy also lives on in the many lives she touched during her 30+ years of service in the public school system. As a librarian, she helped open the school library—a proud achievement. Former students often recognized her in public, offering hugs and kind words, proof of the lasting impression she left.

Eleanor's faith was a guiding light throughout her life and in good times and in bad she would say 'give it to God.'

Eleanor remained in her home, thanks to the devoted care of her daughters, and continued to welcome friends and family until the end. She was a true matriarch, a beacon of love and generosity, and someone who could make a simple afternoon feel like the most special occasion.

The world feels a little dimmer without her radiant presence—her laugh, her hugs, her wisdom, and her food—but the light she gave will continue to shine in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The loss is great, but the love she gave was greater still.

Rest peacefully, our sweet Eleanor. You will be missed beyond words and remembered always.