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VIRGINIA BEACH – Betty Bailey Stephenson, 93, passed away peacefully on Oct. 27, 2024, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Born on May 16, 1931, in Newsoms, Virginia, Betty was widely known as “Betty Etiquette,” a testament to her graciousness and meticulous attention to details, remembered for never missing a birthday and her thoughtful notes. She was a kind and considerate neighbor and friend, and she was devoted to her family.

Betty was predeceased by her loving husband of over 50 years, Willis Stephenson. The foundation of their relationship was a mutual commitment to their faith, family and community. They were devoted members of King’s Grant Baptist Church. Betty was a cherished mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmoth

er, neighbor and friend. Her joy was in her loved one’s happiness. She rarely turned down a board, checkers, bridge or card game. She had wit and a sense of competitiveness even if competing with a great-grandchild. She loved watching the Carolina Tarheels and passed that on to her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening, flowers, birds and reading a Nicholas Sparks book.

She leaves behind a loving family; Billy Stephenson and his wife, Myla; Kimberly Shuler and her husband, Patrick; Jeffrey Stephenson; Katherine Loose and her husband, Alan; Molly Barwick and her husband, Patrick; grandchildren, Bradley (Jennifer), Caleb (Erica), Paul (Felicia) and great-grandchildren Annie, Caitlyn, Heidi, Scarlett, Savannah, Willis, Beezie and Isabel.

Betty was also preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Elizabeth Bailey; daughters Betty Anne and Janet Stephenson and her sister, Anne Wilson. Betty graduated from Newsoms High School in Southampton County, followed by attending Longwood College. Her life reflected the values she garnered through her education and faith.

A visitation will be held at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., 2002 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach, VA, from 4 – 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8. A family graveside memorial service will take place the following day at 11:30 a.m. at Hollywood Cemetery in Newsoms, Virginia, with a family reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in honor of Betty’s memory to Kings Grant Baptist Church, 873 Little Neck Roa, Virginia Beach, Virginia or to the John B. Dey PTA for the Betty Anne Stephenson Scholarship program.