July 14, 2025, 90, Goldsboro —

Betty Pierce Shifflett, 90, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Duplin County on October 24, 1934, Betty was the daughter of the late Troy W. Pierce and Eloise Holloman Knowles. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 49 years, Bobby O. Shifflett, Sr.; her step-father, Homer M. Knowles, Sr.; her beloved son, Bobby O. Shifflett, Jr.; her brother, H.M. Knowles; and her sister, Delores Knowles.

Betty was the heart of her family and the anchor of every home they built. As the wife of a Senior Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force, she embraced the adventure of military life with grace and resilience, turning each new assignment into a place of warmth and welcome. No matter where they lived across the country, Betty ensured that love and stability remained constants for her family.

Professionally, Betty served many years as an administrator in the medical field, earning the respect of colleagues through her diligence and steady presence. Outside of work, she found joy in crafting and cross-stitching—pastimes that reflected her creativity and care for detail. She was rarely seen without a Pepsi in hand, and those who knew her best will fondly recall her spirited personality, sharp wit, and unshakable loyalty.

Above all, Betty was a proud and loving wife, mother, and Nannie. Her legacy lives on in her daughters, Dianne Graham and husband, Ernie, and Amy Sterkenburg and husband, Joe; her grandchildren, Stephanie Kirby, C.G. Kirby, Jr. (Brook), Josh Kirby (Heather), Dustin Sterkenburg (Karrie), and Chad Sterkenburg (Erin); and her fifteen cherished great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Migeon Knowles, along with her niece, Kelly DeVilling and family as well as her dear cousins.

The family will receive friends on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home, followed by a service celebrating Betty’s life at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel with Pastor Andy Stovall officiating. Interment will follow at Wayne Memorial Park.

Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made in Betty’s memory to Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 107 Handley Park Court, Goldsboro, NC 27534.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.