Alean Worley

With profound sadness and great love, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Alean Worley, who was gently called home on April 29, 2026. Born on March 6, 1933, in the heart of Bladen County, Alean was a beacon of love and strength, whose life was a testament to faith, resilience, and devotion to family and community. Alean was the cherished daughter of the late John Timothy Council and Sarah Sander Council. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Herbert Worley Jr., and siblings, Charles Henry, Willie John, Albert, and Thurman Council, as well as her dear sisters, Annie Mae Melvin, Cora Burchette, and Mary Worley. Her legacy lives on through her surviving family members, who include her loving children: Angeline Whitted of Hope Mills, NC; Magdalene Whitted (James) of Fayetteville, NC; Dorothy Whitted of Fayetteville, NC; Dorris Henry (Kyle) of Spring Lake, NC; Prince Worley (Linda) of Parkton, NC; Jacqueline Whitted (Phylander) of Fayetteville, NC; Bonnie McNeill (Jeffrey) of Sandford, NC; Barbarette Harley (Reggie) of White Oak, NC; Helen White of Tarheel, NC; and Mary and Ruby Council of Chester, PA. Her family tree continues to flourish with 30 grandchildren and an astounding 67 great-grandchildren, each a testament to her enduring spirit. Alean's educational journey began at New Light Elementary and continued at Bladen Training School. Her professional life was marked by her entrepreneurial spirit as she successfully ran her own logging company while also dedicating herself to the role of a homemaker. Her life was woven with threads of hard work, dedication, and nurturing care. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted member of First New Light Missionary Baptist Church. Here, she found joy and purpose in her roles with the Junior Choir, Usher Board, and as a singer in the Senior Choir. Alean’s spirited participation was marked by her famous Kinlaw's chicken box, always filled with dishes marked with her initials, 'A.W.', in fingernail polish—a small testament to her caring and organized nature. Alean found immense joy in tending her garden, nurturing both plants and the souls around her. Her home, a sanctuary of warmth and welcome, was always open, serving as a gathering place for family and friends. Her love for the beach was palpable, and she often found peace in the soothing sound of ocean waves. Alean’s greatest joy was sharing the love of Jesus, encouraging daily prayer, and building a strong spiritual foundation for her family. Her unwavering faith was her strength, and she leaves behind a legacy of faith that will continue to inspire generations. The family extends their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this time of sorrow. Alean’s life was a gift to all who knew her, and her presence will be deeply missed yet fondly remembered by those she leaves behind. Her legacy of love and faith will continue to guide us, and her memory will forever be a blessing. In this time of reflection and celebration of Alean's life, we invite friends and family to join us in honoring her remarkable journey and the indelible mark she has left on our hearts.