James Wilson Mock

James Wilson Mock, 97, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2026, at Brighton Gardens in Charlotte, North Carolina. Born in Charlotte on January 23, 1929, James lived a remarkable 97 years filled with family, friendship, service, adventure, laughter, golf, airplanes, and countless memories.

James was the son of Mary Russ Mock and James Olin Mock. He grew up in Charlotte’s Dilworth neighborhood beside Latta Park, surrounded by cousins, aunts, uncles, and extended family. He graduated from Central High School in Charlotte and continued his education at Charlotte College, now UNCC, where he also played football. He later married Barbara Russell and joined the US Navy, where he continued playing football while proudly serving his country during the Korean War. He served aboard the USS Midway, an experience that remained an important part of his life and contributed to his lifelong love of airplanes and aviation.

After completing his military service, He began a career in sales that took him throughout the country. He eventually returned to Charlotte and worked for DuPont. Outside of work, golf at Sharon Golf Club, airplanes, the coast, and his family and friends were his greatest passions.

Following his retirement and the death of his mother, James began a new chapter of his life at Oak Island, NC. This became his home for more than 30 years and a place he dearly loved.

James worked at Cape Fear Jet Airport forming friendships that became like family both at the airport and also his Oak Island neighborhood, which brought him tremendous happiness throughout his later years.

Anyone who knew James knew that he enjoyed life and the people around him. He especially treasured his famous “Friday Nights on Thursday” and his “Vitamin V’s.” These traditions continued almost until the very end and perfectly reflected his sense of humor, his love of friendship, and his belief that life was meant to be enjoyed and shared with others.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Mock, his sister Sally Dillon (husband Joe), and his brother Jackie Conkwright.

He leaves behind four children whom he loved dearly: Cheryl Price (husband Jim), of Mount Pleasant, SC; Jim Mock of Charlotte, NC; Bob Mock (wife Lisa), of Lithia Florida; and Beth Odom (husband Chad), of Statesville, NC.

James was especially proud of his grandchildren, Laura, (husband Ron), John, (wife Lindsey), Kristen, Adam (wife Kayla), Parker, Savannah, Wilson, Jacob, Mary and Ben, each of whom held a very special place in his heart. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren Michael, Emmie, Lily, RJ, Sienna and Everette. He also adored his grand dogs Peanut and Dub, and neighbor Rosie.

He cherished his large extended family, including Mark, Scott, Jenny, Pat, Sharyn, Christy, Debbie, Ashley, Chris and Amy, along with the many other relatives and lifelong friends.

But perhaps James’s greatest legacy cannot be measured by the places he went or the years he lived. It can be found in the people who loved him, the friendships he maintained, the stories that will continue to be told, and the traditions that will undoubtedly bring smiles and laughter whenever his name is mentioned.

James Wilson Mock was deeply loved, and he will be greatly missed.

A celebration of his life will take place later this year.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial donations be made in James’s honor to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.