Edna Jane Avery

Edna “Jane” Stephenson Avery (95) was born on April 12, 1928 in Johnston County. She transitioned to heaven on July 24, 2023.

Jane’s greatest joys were her family. Daughters: Donna A. Pace (Bill) and Barbara A. Williamson; Grandchildren: David C. Dunn, Jr. (Alexandra), Adam H. Dunn (Samantha) and Leigh W. Huelsman (Tony). Great Grandchildren: Landon, Austin, & Emerson Huelsman and Coleman, Boone, & Miller Dunn & one great-grandbaby on the way.

Sisters: Betsy S. Olive and Geraldine S. Honeycutt.

Jane grew up on a farm in Johnston County and attended Cleveland School graduating in 1947. At Cleveland School she played basketball, drove a school bus for four years, and participated in 4-H cattle shows.

Jane attended Highland Baptist Church since 1960 and professed her faith and was baptized in 1963. She was dedicated to her Church serving on various committees and led the “Young At Heart” group for many years.

Many will remember her from the downtown Raleigh Hudson-Belk where she worked for 25 years, retiring in 1992. She especially enjoyed helping brides select silver and china and later made new friends while working in ladies clothing.

After retiring, she enjoyed spending time in her yard, planting flowers, and getting vegetables from local farmers. Jane had a servant heart for the Lord and provided food, a card, or a phone call to many. Her happiest times were with the entire family around her kitchen table and when we gathered for family celebrations. She loved silly games with the children, trivia, and fun facts. She was an avid reader and had 8 books from the library at her passing.

The family would like to thank those that visited, sent cards, called, and offered prayers for Jane. A special thank you to the staff at SECU Hospice House in Smithfield for their compassion and caring, and to Michelle and Sandy who loving cared for mom during the past year.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 27, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Highland Baptist Church, with visitation at 10:00 a.m. at the Church, 8524 Crowder Road, Raleigh, NC.

Serving as pallbearers are: David C. Dunn, Jr., Adam H. Dunn, Tony S. Huelsman, and William D. Pace.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish to honor Jane with a memorial, please make a donation to:

Highland Baptist Church

8524 Crowder Road

Raleigh, NC 27603

Make-A-Wish of Eastern NC (wish.org)

3809 Computer Drive, Suite 201

Raleigh, NC 27609

Or a charity of your choice.

John 11:25-26. Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.