Betty Sue (Farrell) McNeill

Betty Sue Farrell McNeill, 86, of Sanford, North Carolina, joined her Lord and Savior in Heaven on Resurrection Sunday, April 5, 2026. She passed away peacefully after a brief illness, surrounded by her loved ones.

Born on July 23, 1939, Betty Sue was the beloved only child of the late Essie Rosser Farrell and Archie Coley Farrell of Tramway. From an early age, she distinguished herself through both intellect and determination. She graduated as valedictorian of Greenwood High School, the same year she made school history by scoring 48 points in a single basketball game - a record that reflected not only her athletic ability, but also her drive to excel in all she pursued.

Betty Sue went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned both a bachelor’s degree in education, with a concentration in English, and a master’s degree in counseling. She began her career teaching in Raleigh before returning home to Sanford, where she continued to invest in the lives of others through education and encouragement. Over the years, she wrote multiple books for children and two devotional books, in addition to teaching English at Central Carolina Community College, substitute teaching, and working as a parent educator for Smart Start.  

She made a habit of writing and mailing cards of encouragement, walking four miles daily at Kiwanis Park, and rarely missed a Tar Heel basketball game, although she preferred watching from home for a better view and to avoid the crowds. She loved a Bojangles gravy biscuit, the beach, spending time with her family, and more than anything, she loved Jesus. Her goal every day was to love like Jesus and that was evident in how she chose to spend her time and energy. Over the years at Grace Chapel, she faithfully served in many roles, including seventeen years as choir director, involvement in the Annie Belle Register Missionary Society and Clay Vessels, and as coordinator of women’s and children’s ministries. In her work with Stonecroft Ministries, she spoke across the southeastern United States and was instrumental in guiding countless individuals to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

She is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, James Ronald McNeill; her son, Bradley Dixon McNeill (Kathy) of Forest, Virginia; her daughter, Joy Farrell McNeill Chafin (Brent) of Tarboro, North Carolina; grandchildren William Bradley McNeill (Rachel), Caden Pate McNeill, Mary Farrell Chafin, Lillian Grace Chafin, Estelle May Chafin, Sophia Cordia Chafin, Margaret McNeill Chafin; and great-granddaughters Brynley Rae McNeill and Brylee Kate McNeill. In addition, she is survived by sisters-in-law Ruth Morris and Barbara Sue McNeill, three cousins who were more like sisters: Harriet Carter, Connie Riddle, and Peggy Mann, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews, all of whom she loved.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Betty Sue lived her life as a reflection of grace, kindness, and quiet strength. She had a gift for making others feel seen, heard, and valued. She found joy in life’s simple blessings and strength in her trust in God, which remained steadfast throughout her life.

Her funeral will be held on Sunday, April 12 at Grace Chapel Church in Sanford at 3:00 with visitation to follow in the fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Grace Chapel Church, 2605 Jefferson Davis Highway, Sanford, NC 27332.

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