Birdie Coats McGee

Birdie Coats McGee, 85, passed away peacefully to be with her Lord on Sunday, June 26, 2011, following a short term illness. She was born on November 6, 1925 in Mathews County, VA, daughter of the late Vernon Lee and Sarah Elizabeth Thomas. She was a former electronic technician with Eaton Corporation in Selma, NC for 32 years.

As a long time member of Berea Presbyterian Church, Hwy 210, Benson, NC, she served as a Sunday school teacher and as a Deacon. She had many Sunday school students who have many fond memories of her inspiration and devotion. She enjoyed many bus trips and car trips from Florida to Niagara Falls to Branson, MO. Her greatest enjoyment was spending time with her family and many friends, especially, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Also, she was a huge fan of dining at Bojangles every Saturday morning with her sister, Elizabeth and visiting with friends.

She was preceded in death by her former husband, Lacy Coats of 40 years and Benton McGee of 17 years, always a most beloved and devoted wife.

Birdie is survived by one son, Wayne Coats and wife, Sherry of Willow Spring. Grandchildren: Kevin Coats and wife, Kathy of Holly Springs, Michelle Honeycutt and husband, Brian of Raleigh; two great-grandchildren: Chandler and Preston Honeycutt of Raleigh. Sisters: Mildred Diggs of Mathews County, VA and Elizabeth Roberts of Benson; One brother, Aubrey Thomas and wife, Sallie of Benson. Step-daughters: Janet Blalock of Benson; Barbara Eason Keen and husband, Danny of Benson; Preceded in death by one stepson, Larry McGee of Benson; Step-daughter-in-law, Shelby Lee and husband, Gaddis of Clayton. Step-grandchildren: Tanya Betts and husband, Scott of Benson; Brian Parrish and wife, Kim of Clayton; David Blalock and wife, Crystal of Benson; Kristie Gilbert and husband, Ricky of Clayton; and Mark McGee of Benson. Step-great grandchildren: Kyle and Donnie Betts; Josie Parrish; Hannah and Leah Gilbert. Also, she was loved by many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm, Wednesday, June 29, 2011 at Rose & Graham Funeral Home Chapel, Benson, NC officiated by Pastors Carole McCartney and Scott Betts. Burial will follow the services at Roselawn Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 pm on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at the Rose & Graham Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent through www.brownwynne.com.