WILMINGTON — Betty Poole Brinkley left her earthly home on Tuesday, March 18th, after almost 97 years. She was surrounded by her family in her last hours.
Betty was a native of Raleigh, born on May 2nd, 1928, the daughter of Fire Captain James (Jim) and Elsie Poole. She was a proud graduate of Broughton High School and Hardbargers Business College. She spent most of her early days either in Raleigh or Kure Beach, NC where she developed a deep love of the North Carolina coast as well as many friends.
She married Jesse Graham Brinkley, Jr of Wilmington on January 6th, 1951. They were married for 47 years at the time of Jesse’s death in 1998.
She was a proud member of the Greatest Generation having survived The Great Depression, World War II and countless other skirmishes and tribulations.
She was a dedicated State employee spending 28 years as the payroll supervisor for “State College”.
She also worked for The Homebuilders Association of Raleigh and Wake County, and was the Founder and Director of Arden Forest Development.
She was a master at organizing people for a common goal. She and Jesse served as Campaign Managers for Mary Cates’ successful bid for Raleigh City Council. She was an avid reader and led several neighborhood book clubs and investment groups. She was a volunteer at Rex Hospital for over 30 years.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Elsie Poole of Raleigh, and her aunts, Gertrude Bretsch, also of Raleigh and Sara Garrish (Bob) of Norfolk VA.
She is survived by her three daughters Allyson Brinkley of Wilmington, Elecia Brinkley Butts (David) of Raleigh and Laurie Brinkley Baldwin (Tom) of Wilmington. She leaves behind her five grandchildren, Scott Philbrook (Emily) of Greensboro, Jeff Butts (Stephanie) of Raleigh, Jason Butts (Tamra) of Hickory, Alex Butts (Morgan) of Raleigh and Caroline Baldwin of Wilmington, as well as nine great grandchildren: Rowan Philbrook of Greensboro, Zachary, Evie Grace and David Butts of Hickory, Makenzie, Braxton, and Hayes Butts, Ella Brinkley and Scottie Louise Butts, all of Raleigh.
For those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Betty’s honor, the family requests donations be made to Freedom Bridge Animal Rescue at 5610 Onyx Court, Wilmington, NC 28412 or Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Hospice at 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Betty’s family wishes to wholeheartedly thank caregivers Robin Booher and Vanessa Gregorio who were loving and caring friends for many years.
Friends and family are welcome to join us at the home of Susan Rogers at 110 Trail in the Pines Street, Wilmington, NC 28409. The reception is hosted by Susan Rogers, Stephanie Rogers and Jeanne McGowan.
