Zillie's Pantry was named in honor of Barzilla O'Neal, an Old Maid affectionately known by Islanders as "Miss Zillie." She lived with her sister on Ocracoke's "Back Road" and helped raise several nieces and nephews.

Everyone thought that Miss Zillie was a great cook - and she was particularly known for her wonderful yeast rolls. When Miss Zillie's Odonferous Rolls were praised, She would proudly cite her motto:

"Don't let your pantry become empty or bare - Otherwise the devil will make his home there!"

One of Miss Zillies nephews, Oscar Jackson, could often be seen traversing the "Back Road" sporting his beloved sailor's cap. It is rumored that he and his buddies Clee, Wilbur, Tom Frank, Joe and Bill produced some of the very finest "Meal Wine" that Ocracoke Island has ever had to offer.

Barzilla O'Neal / October 30, 1859 - June 10, 1939