Betty Alice (King) Ramey

Betty Alice Ramey, affectionately known as Alice by her family and friends, was born on February 26, 1948, in Grantham, North Carolina, to the late Pearlie and Gertrude King. Alice was one of fifteen children and shared an extraordinary bond as a twin. Raised in a large, close-knit family, she learned early on the values of love, resilience, and community that would define her life.

Alice pursued her early education in the Wayne County School System, where her curiosity and determination laid the foundation for a life filled with purpose. As a young adult, she moved to Newark, New Jersey, in the 1970s to embark on a new chapter. It was there that Alice became the proud mother of two beautiful children, Jewel and John, whom she cherished and adored above all else. Her role as a mother brought her immense joy, and she instilled in her children the same values of faith, compassion, and hard work that guided her own life.

In Newark, Alice worked for many years at Lermer’s Packaging. Despite the challenges of balancing work and family, she pursued her dreams by attending vocational school. Her perseverance paid off when she earned her certification and began a meaningful career as a Division of Child and Family (DCF) worker for Social Services in New Jersey. For ten years, Alice dedicated herself to advocating for vulnerable families, ensuring that children received the care and support they needed.

In 2000, Alice made the heartfelt decision to return to her hometown of Goldsboro, North Carolina, to be closer to her father and family. This move marked the beginning of another impactful chapter in her life, one that was deeply rooted in her faith and community service.

From an early age, Alice’s life was anchored in her love for God. She accepted Christ as a child and nurtured her faith throughout her life. Her devotion was evident in every aspect of her being, and she was never ashamed to speak the name of Jesus. Alice was ordained as a minister at Bread of Heaven United Holy Church under the leadership of Pastor Charlie Mitchell. Later, she was elevated to the role of Eldress under Bishop Ronald Mayo of Mt Carmel Freewill Baptist Church. She Later joined and attended Harvest Fellowship Church under the leadership of Dr. Norris.  She continued to minister even when her health started to fail with passion and grace.

In Goldsboro, Alice pursued her passion for education and children by working as a teacher’s assistant for the Wayne County School System. Her nurturing spirit and dedication to young minds inspired her to establish Sweet Cupcake Daycare, where she provided a loving and safe environment for children to learn and grow. Her daycare became a cherished space for families, reflecting her deep love for children and her commitment to their well-being.

Even after retiring, Alice’s heart for service and her unwavering compassion for children led her to join the Foster Grandparent Program at WAGES. Through this program, she supported children in Wayne and Wilson Counties, leaving a remarkable impression on everyone she encountered. Alice’s warmth, wisdom, and kindness made her a beloved figure in her community.

Alice departed this life on November 20, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Pearlie and Gertrude King, and her three brothers: Edward Earl King, Wilbert King, and Bobby King.

She is survived by her devoted children, Jewel Edwards of Florida and John Edwards Jr. of North Carolina; Two Aunts: Louise Newsome and PearlieBrown; her loving sisters, Pearlie Mae King, Hazel (Herb) Moultrie, Laura Anne (Gilbert) Bush, Betty Carol King, Gertie McKenzie, Angeline King, Juanita (Paradorn) White, Doris Dunbar, and Ernestine King; her caring brothers, George King and Pearlie King, all of Goldsboro, North Carolina; and her precious grandchildren, Kenia Harrell, Zykiah Suggs, Malijah Nicolas, and Farrad Edwards. Alice’s memory will also be cherished by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

Alice’s journey through life was a testament to her strength, faith, and boundless love for others. Her unwavering dedication to her family, her community, and her faith left a profound impact on everyone she touched. Alice’s life was a shining example of how to live with purpose, grace, and compassion. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her loved ones and embraced by the Lord she served so faithfully.

Homegoing service will be held Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 10 a.m. Central Heights FWB Church. Burial will follow at Old Mill Cemetery in Goldsboro. The family will receive friends Friday, December 6, 2024 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.

Professional services entrusted to the care of Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.

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