James "Jimmy" Lee Brock

James “Jimmy” Lee Brock, age 96, passed away peacefully at his home in Spartanburg, South Carolina, on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:11 p.m., surrounded by family and loved ones.

Jimmy was born on August 13, 1929, in Asheville, North Carolina, to the late Everette Emory Brock and Ethel Roper Brock. He graduated from Spartan High School in 1949 and went on to attend Wofford College on a four-year football scholarship, graduating in 1954. While at Wofford, he was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, served as Vice President of the Block “W” Club, and competed on the track team. He was most widely known for his football career, where he set a single-game rushing record with 130 yards on 13 carries, including a remarkable 72-yard run. He was a proud member of the famed “49ers,” considered one of the most legendary teams to ever play for Wofford College.

Following graduation, Jimmy enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia.

After completing his military service, Jimmy began a long and successful career in business. He first owned and operated a Gulf service station before founding Brock Realty and Construction Company. Alongside his brother, Emory, he helped develop numerous subdivisions and properties throughout Spartanburg County. Jimmy remained active in the real estate business for decades and continued selling houses until the age of 95, officially retiring in January of 2025.

Jimmy was married to his beautiful wife, Barbara Jane Mitchell Brock, for 65 years until her passing in 2019.

Jimmy was an avid golfer and won the Senior Spartanburg Country Club Championship in 1999. He loved gardening, cooking, and entertaining family and friends. Music was always an important part of his life, and he especially enjoyed singing. He cared deeply for animals and was a devoted sports fan, particularly when it came to Wofford College athletics. For many years he was part of a beloved breakfast group at Panera Bread, where he formed lasting friendships with people of all ages.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg and remained active in the community throughout his life. Over the years he served with several organizations, including the Board of Realtors, the Rotary Club, and the Terrier Club.

He is survived by his children: Karen Brock Dickey (Chad), James Mitchell Brock, and David Emory Brock (Teresa). He was a proud grandfather to Ali Brock, James Brock, Jr. (Heather), Jon Michael Brock, Rachael Dickey, and Alec Dickey (Amber). He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: JB Dickey, Carson Dickey, and Isabella Dickey. He is also survived by his nephew, Len Brock; his niece, Susan Lessenberry; and his dear friend, Elaine Wade, who brought companionship and friendship to him during the last years of his life.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Jane Mitchell Brock; his daughter, Janice Patricia Brock; and his brother, Emory Bush Brock.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Ike and his medical team for their care and compassion. A very special thank you is also extended to family friend, Sam Solesbee, and a granddaughter, Ali Brock, who lovingly cared for him during his illness.

A private burial with Military Honors will be held in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.

Memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026.

In memory of Jimmy, contributions may be made to Spartanburg Humane Society, 150 Dexter Road, Spartanburg, SC 29303.

Jimmy will be remembered for his strong work ethic, love of family, devotion to his community, and the friendships he made throughout his life.

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