Betty Jean Sexton

May 27, 1935 ~ July 30, 2017
Resided in:
Candler, NC
Betty Jean Clarida Sexton, 82, passed away peacefully at Pisgah Manor in Candler on July 30, 2017.
She was born May 27, 1935 in Sewanee, TN to the late Ray Everette and Jeanne Le Clair Clarida. She grew up in Gatlinburg, living a few doors down the main street from her father’s restaurant, A Sip and A Bite Cafe, and attended the Pi Beta Phi Settlement School. The family moved to Asheville in 1952, in time for her to attend Lee Edwards High School her senior year.
After graduation she worked in downtown Asheville for several years at The Charles Store and Belk, then at American Enka in the chemistry lab, before going home to raise four children. She was a woman of quiet and unshakeable faith who loved family, books, music, Christmas, and who learned from her father to be an unequaled Southern cook.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Lou Clarida Payne and husband Dale of Weaverville, and brother Billy Ray Clarida of Jacksonville, FL.
She is survived by husband Richard Sexton of Candler; son Paul Sexton and wife Cindi of Bellevue, WA; daughters Robin Smith and husband Charles, Ruth Rash and husband Allen, and Jean Sexton, all of Candler; grandsons Levi Smith of Candler and Liam Sexton of Bellevue; niece Theresa Lintz of Bryant, AR; and nephews John Payne of Brooklyn, NY and Travis Payne of Hillsborough, NC.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff on Ellicott Hall at Pisgah Manor for their loving care these past four months.
A Celebration of Life service will be held Sunday, August 20 at 2:00 pm in the Chapel of Trinity Baptist Church, 216 Shelburne Rd., in West Asheville. The Rev. Allen Rash and the Rev. Dr. Ralph Sexton, Jr. will officiate. The family will receive friends following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Building Fund of Trinity Baptist Church.
Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family.
Thoughts and prayers for Jean and family during this time of sorrow. Thankfully, we know you will see her again one day!
Dear Betty
I am Jean’s friend of mine in Japan.
I have not seen you but I can feel you through your lovely and faithful daughter Jean.
My parents and brother, and my two cats, Tamako and Sakura, are there, too. I hope you meet them and tell them hello.
With Love in the Lord, Kyoko.
so sorry …..love u guys !!!
So very sorry for your loss and your family’s loss, Jean. Your mom sounds like a lovely woman. I’m thinking about you! <3
Jean and family: Please know you are in our hearts and thoughts at this difficult time. I know you have many wonderful memories to comfort you.
Ruth and family, so very sorry to hear of your Mother’s passing over to her Heavenly Home. Thoughts and prayers to you in this difficult time. Love to you..Sherry
Ruth and all the family Praying God will keep his loving arms around each of you during the home going of your Mom. Love and prayers!
Sheila Sluder Trinity Baptist Church
I am so sorry for your loss. I had the fortune of meeting your mom while I was visiting Jean several years back. I only spent a day with her but in that short time she made me feel welcomed. She was a very caring and loving person. Thank you, Jean, for sharing your mom with me.
Jean and Family,
I am sad for your loss. I am asking God for His peace, love and comfort to be with you.
Travis Tatham
Richard (Dickkey) So sorry to read of your wife’s passing
Today in the newspaper. My wife and I are visiting relatives in Asheville for a couple of days so will miss the funeral.
I tried to call you but got no answer. Will attempt to call you again soon. My best regards and condolences at this time. Charles.
D
Dear Jean,
You have my heartfelt sympathy. Remember her with love. God bless you and yours.
Ruth and Brother Alan; I was sorry to see the loss of your mother and mother in law. I will keep your family in my prayers. Love Vickie Austin Jennings
My condolences to all the Sexton family. Betty was always so kind and generous to me. I remember her sense of humor and chocolate pound cakes! God bless you all with comfort and peace.