Betty Jean Styers Eddinger

Mrs. Betty Jean Styers Eddinger at age 99 went to her heavenly home, peacefully and quietly, at Arbor Acres United Methodist Retirement Community in Winston-Salem. She was born on July 16, 1926, in Forsyth County to the late Buxton Alexander and Annie Sullivan Styers.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Robert (Bob) Eddinger, one brother, Wesley Styers, three sisters: Virginia Hicks, Mildred Foglemen and Mary Lineback, and her son-in-law Joseph (Joe) Bennett. Betty is survived by her two daughters Patricia Eddinger Bennett and Barbara Eddinger McNeill (Warren), four grandchildren: Scott Bennett (Susan), Lee Bennett (Chandra), Mary-Beth McNeill and Rebekah McNeill; three great grandchildren: Gabrielle Holland, Stormi Roberts, Carigan Bennett, and three great-great grandchildren: Maddi and Henlee Roberts and Savannah Holland.

Betty led a full, purposeful life dedicated to her church, her family, and her friends. She modelled the gift of servanthood and was clearly called to be a caregiver, which she has been for so many years throughout her life. She was the best wife, Mom, and “Mamaw” any family could ask for.

She loved sports and was very proud to have been on the girls’ basketball team at Mineral Springs High school, where she graduated in1943. She was also an avid fan of ACC sports, especially basketball and the UNC Tarheels. She worked at Wester Electric for 33 years where she was known for her hard work and commitment to excellence, and where she found life-long friends.

Betty was sometimes referred to as a “force of nature.” She pursued everything with her own brand of energy whether on an annual shopping trip with her daughters, preparing big meals for her entire family or serving at the church’s Friday night meals. In her last years at Arbor Acres, she continued to dedicate herself to caring for others and was said to be a favorite with the staff due to her strong will, warmth, and compassion.

The family will receive friends and family at 1:00 on Sunday, March 1, at Hickory Ridge United Methodist Church. Visitation will be followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:00, officiated by Rev. R. Wesley McLeod and Rev. Susan Ewing. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hickory Ridge United Methodist Church 6012 Germanton Road Winston-Salem NC, 27105 or The Alzheimer’s Association 225 N Michigan Ave. Floor 17 Chicago, IL 60601.

Betty will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. We trust that she has been welcomed with the words, “Well done good and faithful servant.”