Nellie Elizabeth Watlington

Nellie Elizabeth Watlington, 95, of Yanceyville, NC passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital.

Betty was born in Caswell County, North Carolina, on February 28, 1929, to the late Julius Spencer and Laura Jones Watlington.

She spent most of her life in Caswell County with her five sisters and brother.  She loved spending time with her sisters and found an interest in sports at a young age, which she carried on for the rest of her life.  Her family was very important to her and she enjoyed watching her nieces and nephews grow up.  She spent many days with them in Yanceyville, NC. 

Betty had a desire to learn and obtained her master's degree in 1978 after overcoming a cerebral hemorrhage which she contracted in the early 70's while visiting her dear friend Jean Wilson, in Canada. She worked in administration in post-secondary education. 

Betty was well known for her work at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.  She had an ability to counsel and help students adjust to their situation.  During the tumultuous years of African American students' admission, dorms needed a leader who could keep their cool.  Betty was able and willing to do so.

One of her greatest skills was her ability to listen and not judge.  She was always willing to help by offering ideas, suggestions, and actions. 

As a friend she was kind, helpful and fun. She did not need expensive times to have fun, she enjoyed the company of her friends and family. Her brother often came by on Sunday and the two of them would discuss worldly events and their meanings and impacts. Betty stood by her word because they were carefully reasoned out.  When Betty said something, she meant it.

Others describe Betty as a kind, thoughtful, understanding person, who kept her own standards firm in spite of what others did. The world needs more people like her.

No services are scheduled at this time.  Service details will be communicated at a later date.

She is survived by her sister, Sara Gunter, and many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by four sisters, Dorothy Stogner, Nancy Bryant, Jacksie Crossman, and Helen Jean Watlington, and one brother, Neal Watlington, a special niece, Laurie Gunter Hodges, nephews, Larry Stogner, Kent Bryant and  niece, Ann Bryant.

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service, Swan Quarter.

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