Betsy James Benton

   Betsy Ross James Ward Benton, 90, formerly of the Chowan Beach community, Edenton, NC, and more recently of Ryland Road in Tyner, died Sunday, November 1, 2020.

   Betsy was born in Winston-Salem, NC on December 26, 1929, and was the daughter of the late J. Leonard and Warnie Novella Ross James. A homemaker, in earlier years she had worked as a bookkeeper. As long as health permitted, she was a faithful member of Ballard’s Bridge Baptist Church.

   In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William David Ward; and by brothers, J.L. and Burton James.

   Surviving are two daughters, Deborah Spence and husband, Larry, of Tyner, and Sarah Ward Hamilton of Clayton; a brother, Bob James of San Jose, CA; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

   In accordance with her wishes, a private gathering for the family to share memories and celebrate her life is planned.

   In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at www.stjude.org.

   Miller Funeral Home & Crematory, 735 Virginia Road, is handling arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.