Ava Elaine Ivey Creech

Elaine was born and raised on the family farm in Benson, North Carolina, to David O. Ivey and Lela F. Lee Ivey, who preceded her in death along with brothers Donald, Julius and Delma. She graduated from Four Oaks High School in 1961 and continued her education at Hardbarger Business College. Later in life, she attended Wake Technical Community College, where she studied floral design — a reflection of her creativity and appreciation for beauty. She created floral arrangements and displays for countless weddings, receptions, and church events over the years.

Elaine was crowned Miss Benson in 1962, where she met her future husband when he chauffeured her in a local parade. A lifelong collector and lover of turtles, she was instrumental in assisting NC Representative Chris Barker in passing legislation designating the eastern box turtle as North Carolina’s state reptile.

Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles R. Creech. They married March 14, 1964 and enjoyed 57 happy years together raising their children, enjoying grandchildren, and spending time together at their family home on Holden Beach. They also enjoyed time together at the Ivey Farm in Benson, and especially serving their friends, church family and community.

She is survived by her two sons, Dr. David C. Creech and his wife Kristen of Pittsboro NC, and Daniel K. Creech and his wife Sharon of Cary, NC; her five cherished grandchildren, Cammie, Ava, Ally, Brody, and Lily; and her dear twin sister, Faith Ivey Dean. She is also survived by extended family members and many friends who will miss her deeply.

As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elaine served for over 50 years in leadership roles within the women and youth organizations in a variety of capacities, including several years as a Bible Study teacher for teens. After her husband retired, the two of them completed two service missions along with serving as temple volunteers for several years. Serving others brought her life joy and meaning, as well as seeking after her ancestors and preserving family history. She cherished her roots and heritage.

Elaine will be remembered for her love of country and family, her unique talent to make and keep in contact with her many friends, her grateful and service-oriented heart, and her deep and abiding love for her Savior Jesus Christ which guided her throughout her life.

A celebration of life service will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1811 Seabrook Avenue, Cary, NC 27511. The family will receive guests and condolences beginning at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Apex Cemetery, 315 W. Williams Street, Apex, NC 27502.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Elaine’s memory may be made to Dorcas Ministries, now known as NeighborUp https://neighborup.org/donate/ or TLC (Tammy Lynn Center) a foundation that supports families of children and adults with special needs. https://www.nctlc.org/donate/

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.BrownWynneCary.com for the Creech family or posted to Elaine’s Facebook wall.