Betty Ann B. Neal

In His infinite wisdom, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ called Betty Ann Brunson Neal, who departed this life on Sunday evening, April 29, 2007, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center, after an illness.

She was born Feb. 13, 1948, in Clarendon County, the daughter of the late Sammie L. and Bessie Gibson Brunson. She attended the public schools of Sumter and graduated from Sumter (Lincoln) High School Class of 1966. She also graduated from the University of South Carolina and Central Carolina Technical College. She was united in marraige to Ernest L. Neal on May 7, 1971, and to this union one daughter, Keisha Elizabeth, was added.

She was a member of the Love Center non-denominational church and was a member of the choir. She was also a member of the Starlight Savings Club. Her love for children was exemplified throughout her community. She shared care, attention and unselfish love to each and every child in the community – her home had an open door policy to all the children.

Precious and fond memories will be cherished by a loving husband, Ernest L. Neal of the home; one daughter, Keisha Elizabeth of the home; three granddaughters, Janeisha Brunson, Zaraia Brunson and Janiya Brunson, all of the home; one special daughter, Jarae Boykin of Sumter; one sister, Lilly Blanding of Sumter; a devoted mother-in-law, Mae Neal of Sumter; three brothers-in-law, Cyrus L. Neal Jr. and David J. Blanding, both of Sumter, and Clarence G. Jackson of Aiken; two sisters-in-law, Thelma Neal Jackson of Aiken and Gloria Jean Showers of Myrtle Beach; a special sister-in-kind, Cynthia Boykin of Sumter; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Special thanks to Joyce White, Leola Mickens, Vivian Holliday and family and all the many other friends and relatives who were so kind and helpful during her illness.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 2, 2007, in the chapel of Sumter Funeral Service Inc. with the Rev. Herman Gibson officiating, assisted by the Rev. Lavern McKinney and Brother Clarence Johnson.

Interment followed in Neal Cemetery.

Nieces served as flower bearers and nephews served as pallbearers.

Sumter Funeral Service Inc. was in charge of all arrangements.