Jearldine Childers Privette, 86, of Kannapolis, NC, passed away Monday, June 1, 2026, at Atrium Health Cabarrus after several years of declining health.

Jearldine was born July 1, 1939, to the late Homer Childers and Martha Barnette Childers. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by five sisters: Betty Jo Hooper, Orene Jordan (her twin), Linda Yates, Sally Elizabeth Shaw, and Martha “Susie” Sloop.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 68 years, Wilton Theodore “Ted” Privette; her daughter, Stephanie Michelle Privette Jones; three sisters, Maxine Rushing, Joyce Storm, and Debbie Lambert (Phil); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Jearldine never met a stranger. She loved people and would often introduce herself by saying, “Hi, my name is Jearldine with a ‘J.’ What’s your name?” She retired from Terry Products and faithfully worshiped her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as a member of South China Grove Baptist Church.

Ted and Jearldine were married on June 16, 1957, after dating for four years following a blind date that brought them together. They shared a remarkable and blessed journey of more than 72 years together. Their bond was truly blessed, built upon a foundation of faith in Christ, mutual interests, and a deep love for one another.

A funeral service celebrating Jearldine’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Whitley's Funeral Home, with Rev. Curtis Parker officiating. Interment will follow at Carolina Memorial Park in Kannapolis. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. prior to the service at Whitley's Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to South China Grove Baptist Church, 501 Haney Street, China Grove, NC 28023.