Enora W. Wilkins Staten

Enora was the fourth out of six children born to Jack and Olive Wilkins. Her home town was Washington, North Carolina (Little Washington). Jackie, as she was lovingly known to her family and friends, graduated from Mother Mercy High school in 1954 and later graduated from the Church of God In Christ (C.O.G.I.C.) Academy.

Enora met and fell in love with a hometown boy, Elder John Staten Jr. and they later wed in May 1961. John and Enora would make their home in NY for more than thirty years. From this union came 4 daughters, Kim, Sonia, and Ayuna.

Enora had an unwavering faith in God, and was a devout Christian. During her life Enora, was a true servant of God. She became a pastor’s assistant, pastor in Brooklyn NY, as well as serving on the women's and mother’s axillaries with the Church of God in Christ. Upon moving to Raleigh, in 1989, she was under the leadership of Bishop Patrick L Wooden Sr. until her passing.

Enora was an impeccable mother and homemaker, she loved her family and was always someone you could call to get motherly advice, whether you wanted it or not. Enora was full of life and held many surprises and talents; she also had a quirky side to her. Those who knew her closely, simply mentioning children’s panties will bring a smile to your face. She taught herself to play the piano and passed this love of music on to her children. Christmas morning was always spent with her playing and singing her favorites, such as “Great is Thy Faithfulness.” Not every note was correct but our house would be filled with love and joy. Enora’s evenings would be spent, pencil in her hair, mastering crossword puzzles, and watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune.

Enora truly enjoyed children, which lead her to become a foster mother, through the Salvation Army, to over twenty children. During this time she worked, at AT&T as an overseas telephone operator. After retirement she became an infant teacher at Children’s Academy. This was just another example of services that brought fulfillment to her life.

The last months, weeks and days of her life she was lovingly cared for by her daughters, God-daughter (Angel) and youngest sister Robin. The family gives them, the nursing staff at the hospital and “Transitions Hospice” facility, their greatest gratitude for the loving care and support during her final days.

Enora is survived by her spouse of 55 years John Staten, children Kim Staten N'doye (N.C) Sonia Hill (Michael, NY), Vanessa Staten (N.C), Ayana (Angel) King (NC), seven loving grandchildren: Kameron, Resean (Heather), Ariel (Timothy), Michael Jr, Gerlisa, Onjalae, Isaac, and five great-grandchildren; three sisters, one brother, a host of nieces, nephews, close friends and loved ones.

Our mother was an amazing woman of God and will truly be missed.