Betty Lou Ward

Betty Lou Ward, devoted wife, mother and public servant went to be with her lord on November 8, 2023 after a brief illness. She is survived by her husband, Bill, brother Sterling Cofield and his family, and son Jeff and his wife, Marte and their two daughters and son in laws and five grandchildren (yes, Betty Lou had five great grandkids!). She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Missy and her parents, Henry and Lillie Cofield.

Betty loved her family, her friends and her church more than words can say, and they in turn loved her to the moon and back. Her endearing personality, knack for seemingly unending conversation, sparkling eyes and constant smile will be missed by all.

Betty Lou was the longest serving county commissioner in Wake County's history. Her tenure from 1986 to 2016 left an indelible mark on the county. She served on numerous county, state and national committees and was past President of the National Association of County Commissioners. In 2017 she was inducted into the Raleigh Hall of Fame.

Her funeral service will be held at Edenton Street United Methodist Church in Raleigh at 2 PM on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 which will also be live streamed. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that gifts be made to the Methodist Home For Children. Gifts can be sent to the office at 1041 Washington Street, Raleigh, NC 27605 or made online at: mhfc.org.

Services provided by Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC.