Lessie Elliott White

Lessie Elliott White, 96, of Main Street, Winfall, NC, passed away Saturday, April 19, 2014 in W.R. Winslow Memorial Home, Elizabeth City. Born in Perquimans County, she was one of six children of the late Joseph Proctor and Linda Benton Elliott. She grew up on the family farm in Chapanoke and soon met and married Thomas Haskett White from Winfall, where they lived the rest of their lives together. After Tom's death Lessie lived an independent and active life, caring for herself, her home, and her yard until she had a fall at the age of 92. A life-long member of Epworth United Methodist Church, she also was a member of the Albemarle Museum Guild, American Legion Auxiliary, and was an active volunteer for the American Heart Association. Known as the "Poppy lady," every Memorial Day she regularly helped place American flags at the graves of local veterans. An accomplished seamstress, she was known for her beautiful draperies and swags. Her love for the beach and Tom's love for fishing took them to Nags Head where they resided part-time for many years in their cottage across from Nags Head Pier. Lessie's door, whether in Winfall or Nags Head, was always open to family, friends, and neighbors. She loved and treasured antiques. Whenever it would snow, she would start making custard for snow cream; her fondness for cooking is well known in most parts of Perquimans County where hundreds, if not thousands, of her pies and cakes were lovingly made and delivered. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a sister, Sarah Elliott Hollowell, three brothers, Henry Matthew Elliott, John Ambrose Elliott, and L.B. "Ranzy" Elliott. Surviving are her sister, Bell Elliott of Chapanoke; and an abundance of nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly. Graveside services will be held Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. in West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Elizabeth City, by Rev. David Elliott Hollowell and Rev. Roger Cope. Friends may join the family in the cemetery following the graveside services. Miller & Van Essendelft, Funeral and Cremation Providers, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, is assisting the family with arrangements. Through the years you wonderful people have blessed her with your friendship and countless acts of kindness: prayers, cards, calls, visits, flowers, and food. Our remembrance of your love for her will keep the joy of her awesome spirit alive. The family also gratefully acknowledges the outstanding staff at W.R. Winslow Memorial Home for their unfailing care and compassion during this phase of our loved one's journey home. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.