Elaine Burton Reece

She was one of the most independent and ingenious individuals and continued to get up and go to work at Home Depot right up to three days before her surgery. In her 79 years, she loved and explored exactly as she wanted to and taught her children to work hard, be self-reliant and look for solutions. She loved her children and her mother fiercely and enjoyed caring for her cats.

She is survived by three children, Sonya Alexander (Allan) of New Bern, Allison Reece Griffin of Lexington, and Lonnie Phillip Reece, Jr. of Thomasville; two brothers, Malcolm Burton (Sue) of Lexington and Larry Burton (Loretta) of Thomasville; sister, Pat Pugh of High Point; grandchildren, Rodney Alexander (Brittney), Clay Alexander (Grayson Nolen), Grant Alexander (Sarah), and Kathryn Reece (Dylan Hernandez); one great granddaughter, Skylar Alexander; and two great grandsons, Reid Alexander and Jacob Alexander. Sadly, she was preceded in death by her grandson, Jonathan Reece.

In accordance with her wishes, there will not be a service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her name to Brunswick County Animal Services, 429 Green Swamp Road NW, Supply, NC 28462.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the team members of the Shallotte Home Depot for seeing the value that older people bring to the workforce and for allowing our Mother to remain active and happy well into her life.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cottenfuneralhome.com for the Reece family.

Arrangements are in the care of Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory.