Grace P. Bethea

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North Carolina Central University

Grace Bethea Obituary

Mrs. Grace Parrish Bethea, a resident of 3027 Woods Place, Raleigh, N.C., died Friday, December 24, 2010. She was a special lady known for her infectious smile and kisses.
She was the daughter of the late Andrew C. Parrish and Cozie Atwater Parrish. She began her career as an educator by receiving a Bachelor's Degree from Shaw University. She earned a Master's in Education degree from North Carolina College for Negroes, now North Carolina Central University, in Durham, NC. Mrs. Bethea was an elementary school teacher for more than thirty years. She retired from the Wake County Public School System as a first grade teacher at Fred Olds Elementary School. She was a devoted member of Oak City Baptist Church. She was a member of numerous organizations, including Jack and Jill, Moles, and the Raleigh Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Survivors include two daughters, the Honorable Karen Bethea-Shields (Ret.) (Linwood) of Durham, NC, and the Reverend A. Renee Bethea of Raleigh, NC; two sisters, Mrs. Ruth Gwendolyn Wilkinson of Fort Washington, Maryland, and Mrs. Katheryn P. Batipps of Raleigh, NC; one grandchild, Elder Nicole P. Roach; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and "adopted children."
She was preceded in death by the "love of her life" her husband Bryant W. Bethea; her eldest daughter, Reverend Brenda B. Roach; two brothers, Mr. Everette Parrish and Mr. Andrew Charlie Parrish, and one sister, Mrs. Gertrude P. Hicks.
Visitation will be held at Haywood Funeral Home in Raleigh on Thursday, December 30, 2010, from 7:30-8:30 p.m.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 31, 2010, at Oak City Baptist Church, 608 Method Road, Raleigh, NC.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Oak City Baptist Church Youth Ministry.
Arrangements by Haywood Funeral Home, Raleigh, (919) 832-2835 www.haywoodfh.com

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Published by The News & Observer on Dec. 29, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Grace Bethea

6 Entries

Leigh Motooka

January 10, 2011

Mrs. Bethea was my first grade teacher. I've never forgotten her. She encouraged my creativity and love of reading. I used to go back to visit her from time to time, until we moved away. (Something I never did with any other teacher.)

My condolences on your loss.

Barbara Haywood Battle

January 7, 2011

Aunt Grace was a beautiful, gracious, loving person. She was my moms favorite first cousin and best friend. She had a great life and everyone loved her. Sorry for your loss cousins. She's a beautiful angel.

Yolanda Jarrett

December 30, 2010

Thank you SO much for sharing your mom and relative with Oak City... When I was younger and had just moved down here Mrs. B made me feel loved... told me I was beautiful every time I saw her at church... asked me how I was doing and sent me birthday cards and random phone calls every year, even AFTER I left the church... I will miss that very much. God bless you all, I know I'm sad and could only imagine how you must feel... but I know I have a wonderfully amazing angel in heaven right now.

Patricia Apsitis

December 29, 2010

Mrs. Bethea was my first grade teacher in 1970-71 and then she taught my sister the following year. I adored her and have thought of her fondly over the years as recently as in the last month. Mom called to let me know of her passing today and tears flow. She planted seeds in many young hearts teaching us to love learning and life. I was blessed by her. It has been over 20 years since the last time I saw her but I still have her sweet smile and touch to cherish. My prayer is that her family is comforted during this time knowing the impact she had on others. My name was Patricia Lewis when I was in her class.

Charlotte Fleming

December 29, 2010

Karen (Aunt K):

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your loved one. She was a wonderful lady and truly a joy to be around (We remember getting one of those "kisses" whenever she greeted us). I know she is at peace and in no pain now. If there is anything we can do for your family, please let us know.

Love you,

Lavern & Tiffany

December 29, 2010

Renee my friend,

My heart and thoughts go out to you and to your family during this difficult time. Although I never met your mother, I know she must have been an amazing lady to have raised such a devoted daughter. I was always touched by the tenderness that you showed towards her during her various illnesses. She must have been very proud and loved you (and her family) very much. I can only imagine the pain you are in, but you must find comfort that she is in a better place. Please let me know if I can do anything for you. I won't be able to attend the funeral, but please know that I am with you in spirt.

Love,

Xavier

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