Betty Brinkley Early passed way at the age of 97 on September 19, 2023 in Burke County. Born in Burke County on January 3, 1926, Betty's life was impacted by the Great Depression and World War II. Following a long career in elementary school education, she finished with the Employment Security Commission.

Betty was a devoted member of St. James Episcopal Church. She was a trailblazer in women serving in leadership, and a founding member of The Daughters of the King at St. James.

A long-standing member of Cedar Rock Country Club, Betty was also involved in many other community organizations.

Betty was preceded in death by William Jacobs who died while serving in World War II; by her second husband of 51 years, Bill Early; and by her son William Daniel Jacobs Early. Betty is survived by her son William Early and daughter-in-law Liza Plaster.

A funeral service and interment will be held Saturday, October 7 at 1 pm at St. James Episcopal Church, followed by a reception hosted by The Daughters of the King.
A Celebration of Life will be at Cedar Rock Country Club on Sunday, October 8 at 4 pm.

Memorials in Betty's name can be sent to St. James.

Betty lived by her favorite verse "Be still and know that I am God."