Birth Date: 09/15/1954
Deceased Date: 08/26/2023
Betty Jo Evans, 68, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 26th, 2023, surrounded by her loving family at the SECU hospice house in Smithfield, NC.
Betty Jo grew up on a farm outside of Kenly, and throughout her life showed everyone around her the true meaning of southern hospitality. She worked hard all her life and had a passion for her career at JCI, helping adults with disabilities find equality in the workforce.
Although she loved her work and was great at what she did, Betty Jo, most importantly, was a devoted wife and mother. She loved her family with her whole heart. In fact, she and her husband, James, had been married for 51 years – a true testament of love and happiness. She was a loving mother who would do anything for her girls – after all, she was their biggest fan! Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren lit up her world, and she genuinely loved her tribe.
For those who knew Betty Jo understand the meaning of friendship. Whether it was an encouraging word, a smile, or a pat on the back, she knew what to say and when to say it. She was full of life, love and laughter. Outside of daily responsibilities, she loved to travel. Whether it was a random trip to the mountains with the love of her life, or a trip to Las Vegas to see family, she found happiness in seeing the world around her and being with those she loved.
Anyone who walked in her kitchen would walk away with a full stomach because she was a great southern cook and made sure that no one left hungry. Being a crafty person, she also had a great talent for sewing and enjoyed creating things.
Everyone who had the privilege of knowing Betty Jo was blessed because she made everyone feel loved. She was pure joy to be around, and her love and respect for others brought such light to this world. She will always be loved, cherished, and missed beyond measure!
She is preceded in death by her Mama – Hazel Massey, Daddy – George Massey, Mother – Jean Caddess, Brother – Jackie Massey, and Sister – Vivian Carol Massy.
Betty Jo is survived by her loving husband, James Evans; her daughters Patricia Allen (Jackie), Jennifer Williams (Sonny), and Jamie Boswell (Kevin); her grandchildren Bobby Perry (Niki), Katy Flanagan, Kasey Perry, Foxx Evans, Christopher Boswell-Edenfield (Matt, Steven), Evan Boswell (Kymber), Cody Boswell, and Jackson Williams; her great-grandchildren Bella Flanagan, Caroline Flanagan, and Arlee Jo Perry; her sisters Linda Sinks (Richard), Janet Faircloth, June Robinson (Kendall), Donna Caddess, and Diana Ruble (Kevin); her best friend Donna Gilmore and honorary daughter Angela Whitley-Devereaux (Robert/Tyler).
The family will receive friends at Parrish Funeral Home in Selma, NC on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, from 10am until 11am. A memorial service will follow visitation from 11am until 12pm.
Per Betty Jo’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, please send any donations to the Pretty in Pink Foundation or the SECU Hospice House in her honor.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at Parrishfh.com
