Obituary: Orville “Big Ed” Langley Jr.
Orville “Big Ed” Langley Jr., 85, of Kinston, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Nell Gates Langley; his mother, Mildred B. Jones, and her husband, Willard B. Jones; and his biological father, Orville Ednumd Langley Sr.
He is survived by his son, Orville “Little Ed” Langley III and wife Lesley; grandsons Michael Langley and wife Emily, and Hunter Langley; great-grandchildren Jase and Janie; along with many special nieces, nephews, and wide circle of wonderful friends.
Ed retired in 1992 after more than 30 years of dedicated service at DuPont, where he formed many lifelong friendships and proudly carried with him the familiar “DuPont quirks” that friends fondly remember. After retirement, Ed stayed busy putting his self-taught carpentry skills to work. He became a valued asset to Dillard Wallace Construction, where he was known for his careful craftsmanship-always measuring at least ten times before making a cut.
Affectionately known as “Papa,” “Mr. Ed,” or “Big Ed,” he deeply loved his neighborhood and community. Ed selflessly served for over 30 years with the Hugo Volunteer Fire Department, earning Lifetime Honorary Membership, multiple Firefighter of the Year awards, and numerous other honors. When the pager sounded, it was hard to beat Mr. Ed to Station 2. He could always be heard on the radio saying, “Hugo Engine 2 responding.” A voice that will never be forgotten. His servant’s heart and unwavering dedication will be dearly missed by many.
In his spare time, Ed enjoyed spending time with family and friends, woodworking, hunting, fishing, cooking, and attending British Chapel Church. His love was constant and helped shaped countless lives. Through his hands, he blessed many with picture frames, magazine racks, seasonal yard decorations, and other handcrafted wooden creations that will be treasured for years to come.
Ed has now received the greatest gift-entering eternal, peaceful life with Jesus. Though his physical presence no longer graces our lives, his spirit will forever inspire us. May his memory be a blessing, and may we continue his legacy of love, service, and compassion in all that we do.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. at Howard-Carter Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. following visitation at Howard-Carter Funeral Home in Kinston with Pastor Gray Harrison officiating. Burial will follow the service at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Kinston.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hugo Fire Department at 274 Tilghman Rd, Kinston, NC 28501 or British Chapel Church at 3338 British Rd., Kinston, NC 28501.
