Betsy Wilson Chandler, 89, of 232 Country Club Drive in Eden, passed away Sunday, September 30, 2018, at her home.

A funeral service will be held at 2 PM on Thursday, October 4, at Fair Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow in Lawson Cemetery.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service (1 - 2 pm) on Thursday at Fair Funeral Home and will receive friends at the residence on Wednesday evening, 6 - 9 PM.

A native of Rockingham County, NC, Mrs. Chandler was born October 8, 1928 to the late James S. Wilson II and Pauline Allen Wilson.  She was one of the leaders who established the Central Baptist Church, making her a Charter Member.  There she was the pianist and a teacher of youth, as well as the Ladies Bible Studies for over 30 years.  Because of her love and concern for others, she led a Bible class ministry for many years at the Wentworth jail and Crossroads Baptist Church.  She also served faithfully as a member of the First Baptist Church of Draper.

She was a talented seamstress and artist, doing paintings and ceramics.  Betsy loved playing tennis and golf, which she was able to do most of her life.  

Betsy was the author of several books, one of which included the autobiographical writings of her beloved grandfather, J. Sidna Allen, a historical gentleman from Hillsville, VA.

She is survived by her son, Joseph Chandler, III and wife, Nina of Eden;  daughters, Lisa Owen and husband, Stanley of Blairs, VA and Beth Chandler-Fowler of Greenville, SC;  10 grandchildren;  19 great-grandchildren;  brothers, Mitchell B. Wilson of Eden and James "Sonny" Wilson, III and wife, Brenda of Eden;  and sisters Rose Lovelene Thorpe of Greensboro and Kathy W. Young of Roxboro.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Washington Chandler, Jr. and her adored sister, Gayle W. Odell.

The family extends love and gratitude to Betsy's most wonderful and special caregivers from Hospice of Rockingham County and from others who cared for her daily, around the clock, at the home.  Also, the children are so grateful for Betsy's loving brothers, sisters, and their spouses.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Rockingham Count, PO Box 281, Wentworth, NC  27375;  to Central Baptist Church, 404 E. Meadow Road, Eden, NC  27288;  or to First Baptist Church of Draper, 1017 Fieldcrest Road, Eden, NC  27288.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com