Mrs. Jessie Hoover Leak departed this life on Monday, August 10, 2026. She was born on February 12, 1952, in Thomasville, NC, to the late George D. Hoover and Nola Stokes Hoover. In addition to her parents, Jessie was preceded in death by her husband, James Leak, Sr., and her son, James Leak, II.

Jessie was a faithful member of Central United Methodist Church in Thomasville, NC. She graduated from Thomasville Senior High School in 1970 and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Bennett College in 1974. Jessie continued her studies and, in 1981, earned a master's degree in Sociology from North Carolina A&T State University.

In her leisure time, she found great enjoyment in watching a variety of game shows, particularly beloved classics such as Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune, as well as her favorite cooking shows. She especially cherished the precious moments she shared with her grandchildren, great-grandchild, family, and friends.

Her warmth, love, and kindness touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. The profound impact she made on those around her will remain in the hearts of her loved ones, ensuring that she will be deeply remembered and dearly missed by all.

Left to cherish her precious memories are: her daughter, Mosonica Nelson Kittrell (Tony); three grandchildren, Tre'von, Jessie, and Elizabeth; and one great-grandson, Tre'von Jr. She is also survived by her sister, Frances Hoover Tuttle; four sisters-in-law, Mary McCoy, Katherine McRae (Walter), Betty Leak, and Peggy McCall (Charles); one brother-in-law, Harold Leak (Loretta); along with a host of other family members and special friends.

Funeral service will be held Monday, August 17, 2026 at 12:30 p.m. at Central United Methodist Church, 115 James Avenue, Thomasville, NC. Interment will follow at Carolina Biblical Gardens. The family will receive friends at the church from 12:00 p.m. until 12:30 p.m. Mrs. Leak may be viewed on Sunday, August 16, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.