E.C. (John) Massengill

E.C. (John) Massengill

January 11, 1929 - October 19, 2025

E.C. (John) Massengill, 96, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, October 19, 2025. He passed away peacefully in Raleigh, North Carolina, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 11, 1929, on the dairy farms of Johnston County, North Carolina.

After growing up in Johnston County, Emory moved to Raleigh, where he built a life centered around faith, family, and service. He was employed by the Agricultural Department at North Carolina State University, where he helped develop and strengthen the university's agricultural program. Following his time at NC State, he founded and operated the Massengill Open Air Mart in downtown Garner, a beloved family business he proudly ran for fourteen years. In addition to his entrepreneurial work, Emory also established and managed a commercial real estate company in the Raleigh area, remaining committed to honest work and community stewardship throughout his life.

Emory was married to the late Betty Sauls Massengill for sixty-six years, and together they built a loving home grounded in faith and perseverance. A devoted Christian, he served as a deacon at Fellowship Baptist Church and was a faithful member of the congregation for many years, cherishing the friendships and fellowship he found there.

He enjoyed spending time with his family, tending to his garden, and sharing stories of his years growing up in the countryside of North Carolina. His wisdom, humor, and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Emory will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, and a man whose life was guided by faith, love, and service.

Left to treasure his memory are his daughter, Phyllis (Jackie) Britt of Garner; his grandson, Justin (Christy) Britt of Garner; and his great-granddaughter, Jordan Nicole Britt of New York City, who carry forward his spirit of kindness, integrity, and strength through faith.

Along with his beloved wife, Betty, Emory was preceded in death by his siblings Earl Massengill, Maverine Mozingo, and Gladys Caddell. He is survived by his sister Faye Butler and brother Rufus Massengill, who, along with his family, will continue to cherish his memory and the lasting legacy he leaves behind. He is also survived by countless extended family members and friends, all of whom he loved very dearly.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Fellowship Baptist Church, 5029 Old Stage Road, Raleigh, North Carolina. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m., with burial to take place shortly afterward at Montlawn Memorial Park, 2911 S. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in E.C. (John) Massengill's memory to Fellowship Baptist Church.