Betty Ann Riddle Ward

Betty Ward, a beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in Candler, North Carolina, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 20, 1938, in Madison County, Betty spent most of her life in Buncombe County, where she established deep roots and nurtured lasting relationships within her community.

Throughout her career, Betty dedicated many years of service at the J. Crew Distribution Center, where her commitment and contribution were highly regarded. She was known for her unwavering work ethic and her ability to connect with colleagues, making a positive impact in her workplace.

Betty was a longtime member of Edgewood Baptist Church, where she found a sense of community and purpose in her faith. Her devotion to her church family mirrored her dedication to her own family, as she cherished her roles as a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her proudest accomplishments included nurturing her children and watching them grow into successful individuals, and she took immense joy in being an integral part of her grandchildren's lives.

Betty is survived by her two daughters, Teressa Warren and Veronica Long, who is married to John. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Misty Fuller and her husband Keith, William Long and his wife Morgan, Patricia Frisbee and her husband Wes, and John John Long and his wife Jessica . Additionally, Betty was a proud great-grandmother to Desmond Ingle and his wife Brooke, and Madison Towles and her husband Houston. She is also survived by her sister, Dorothea Sampson and her husband Julian, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family who will carry her memory forward.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, James "Jim" Lawrence Ward, who passed away in 2002; her parents, Samuel Wiley Riddle and Vernie Martha Robinson Riddle; and her sister, Shirley Sampson and her husband Donald.

As we remember Betty Ward, we celebrate a life filled with love, faith, and unwavering commitment to family and community. Her warmth and kindness will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Funeral services for Betty Ward will be held at Edgewood Baptist Church, located at 61 Moody Avenue, Candler, NC 28715. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM. Pastors Keith Lindsey and Louis Gibson will officiate and entombment will follow at Pisgah View Memorial Park.

Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made in her memory to Edgewood Baptist Church, located at 61 Moody Avenue, Candler, NC 28715.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Betty's family.