Elizabeth Bunnell Kelly Neal passed into the Kingdom of Jesus Christ forever on Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at her home in Cameron, surrounded by her family.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 3, 2022 at Ephesus Baptist Church in Sanford at 2:00 pm with Pastor Larry White, Jr. and Pastor Daniel Sims officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church fellowship hall from 1 until 2. A private burial will following in the church cemetery.
Elizabeth was born in Harnett County on August 5, 1927 to the late Bonie Layton and Eliza Carter Bunnell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Bryant Moody Kelly, Sr. and Roy William Neal, son, Russell Dewey Kelly, grandson, William Dale Kelly, Jr., brothers, Alton, Irvin and Roland.
She spent her whole life in joyful devotion to God and family. She prayed unceasingly for the needs and protection of her family and friends, while sharing God’s love with all those she met. Many asked for her prayers to God and were comforted by Him. She had the gifts of a gentle caregiver, a strong spirit, a kind heart, and humble wisdom.
Elizabeth loved gardening and worked hard on a farm most of her life. She was an outstanding cook who would prepare a meal for two or twelve that bested any in the world. She enjoyed being in nature at the beach, mountains, and her own backyard. The birds and animals around her house were well cared for, and she enjoyed listening to and watching them. She had skills and knowledge of life that amazed those who grew up with modern conveniences, and as she grew older, she maintained her independence until the very end. She cherished family gatherings and could always be seen laughing with the children there. The lives she touched and blessed with her time on earth can only be counted by God.
She is survived by her children, Bryant M. Kelly, Jr. (Betty) of Cameron, Carter Martin Kelly (Donna) of Ellerbe, William Dale Kelly of Cameron, Terry Joan White (Larry) of Cameron, Betty K. Normandin (Jim) of Carthage, Doris Ellen Kelly of Cameron and Kathy K. Kiker (Eric) of South Carolina; brothers, Gerald Bunnell of Carthage, Phillip Bunnell also f Carthage and Barney Bunnell of Sanford; twenty-two grandchildren, twenty-seven great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren who carry her love and example with them.
Her family and friends are grateful for the life Elizabeth provided and shared with them. They are comforted knowing she will live in full peace and happiness in the house of the Lord forever.
Condolences may be sent to www.coxmemorialfuneralhome.com.
The family has entrusted services to Cox Memorial Funeral Home & Crematory in Vass.
