Betty Neece Lee

Betty Neece Lee, 76, of Salem, passed away Wednesday, June 19, 2024. She was preceded by her husband, Douglas Neece who passed away in 1992; granddaughter, Brooke Neece, sisters, Jolene McCoy, Brenda Wilson.

Surviving to cherish her memory her daughter; Lori Bailey; her son, Richard Neece (Anita Ballard); grandson, Gabriel Bailey; sisters, Joyce Duncan and Melba Dodd; and brother, Sammy Wilson.

Betty went back to complete her education at the age of 37 and received her GED in 1984.  She was so proud of this accomplishment. Before she retired after her aneurysm she worked at Home Shopping Network as a shipping clerk.  She enjoyed giving her time to others.  She loved her church family and volunteering her time to Richfield before being a resident to play music with a music group from the church.  Her most proud accomplishment was being the church pianist after her aneurysm with one hand and it sounded like heaven. She was determined to show everyone nothing was wrong with her from never using a handicap sign with parking.  She was an extraordinary woman, her determination despite the obstacles of the after effects of the aneurysm.  Her faith was strong with the Lord, she would never look at herself with any pity and would always say it could be worse and was always optimistic about life.  She taught me and my brother that even early on in life. She used to foster babies for Red Cross growing up and loved babies as we grew up in North Carolina. 

She was a loving grandmother to her grandchildren; she loved Gabe and Brooke.  They would always bring a smile to her face.  My cherished memory with my mom was how much she gave of her time to others.  She set the example it didn’t matter how you felt if there was a need she would always go out of her way to help as much as she could even after the aneurysm.  She had a strong relationship with the Lord and after going through something so traumatic she remained even greater in faith.

A special thank you to Susan at Richfield for always helping to take care of mom and the exceptional caring staff.  Mom had the personality everyone loved.  She was spunky and loved to laugh.  She was beautiful inside and out and her love for others set the example of how we all should live.  We rejoice as she is in Heaven now.  She will be missed but, she was a gift on the earth.

The family will receive family and friends on Sunday, June 23, 2024 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Lotz Funeral Home Salem.  Funeral service will be held on Monday, June 24, 2024, 11 a.m. at Lotz Salem Chapel.  Interment will be is Sherwood Memorial Park.