Mrs. Bettie J. Whitley

Bettie Jean Carter Whitley affectionately known as ‘BJ’, passed away peacefully at her home on September 29, 2025, attended by her family, after battling a long illness.  She was born on January 29, 1945 in Littleton, North Carolina, to the late James Patterson and Emma Carter Mutz.  She was a proud graduate of Huntington High School in Newport News in 1963.

Bettie lived a life marked by grace, kindness, and deep love.  Married for 58 beautiful years, she and her cherished husband, Ralph, shared a bond filled with laughter, partnership, and unwavering support.  Together, the faced life’s challenges and celebrated its joys.

Her manner was quiet, reserved, down to earth, and she preferred to work in the background on tasks, projects, and jobs.  Working with her was a pleasure because of her no-nonsense attitude and highly desirable personality.

She had a knack for decorating and gardening, bringing beauty and warmth to her surroundings.  Her sense of style was unique and timeless, often earning compliments for her ability to pair colors and textures effortlessly.   From their first visit, visitors felt relaxed and at home in her house’s comfortable atmosphere.

A devoted member of World Victory Church and Life Center, Bettie was deeply involved in ministry and volunteer work.  She actively contributed to various projects and committees, including the decorating and food committees, where her eye for detail and creativity shone.  She especially loved decorating the church for Christmas, a season that brought her great joy.

Bettie met Ralph on a blind date during his military service at Little Creek Amphibious Base in 1965.  Two years later, they married, embarking on a loving partnership that lasted 58 years.  Together, they raised their beloved son, Trent Ralph, who preceded her in death, as did her siblings Celestine, Jerome, and Donnell.  Later, the lovingly nurtured their niece, Ar’Kera Mutz, as their own.  Moreover, Bettie enjoyed seeing her 2-year-old great-grand-nephew, Khalil, whenever he visited her.  During that time, he erased her pain and was a pure joy to her.

In addition to her loving husband, Bettie is survived by her siblings Elwood Carter (Martha) New York, Melvin Carter Newport News, Randolph Mutz (Alice) Hampton, Geraldine Richardson (William) Newport News, and Patricia Mutz Washington D.C.  Along with these relatives, Bettie is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as many friends who were touched by her kindness and caring spirit.

Bettie connected with people both young and old alike. The friendships she formed lasted a lifetime.  Those who knew Bettie will remember her as a supportive, caring, and highly committed friend.  Though she has left this world, her love remains woven into the lives she touched and the memories she created.

It is the desire of the Whitley family that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Ms. Bettie J. Whitley  has entrusted her final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.

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