Mrs. Betty Kerley, 81, of Taylorsville, N.C., passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at her home. She was born January 20, 1944, in Wilkes County, the daughter of the late Ernest Fortner and Annabelle Kilby Fortner.

Betty was a homemaker and worked in the cafeteria at Sugar Loaf Elementary School before retirement. She was a member of Mt. Hebron Baptist Church. She enjoyed traveling, cooking, sewing, and having a good time. She loved having a Christmas party at her house for family and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Toice Kerley; and her brothers-in-law, Royde, Waitsel, and Harold Kerley.

Those left to cherish and honor Betty’s memories include her sons, Lorne Kerley of Alexander County, Ray Kerley and wife Stephanie of Murphy, N.C.; her grandchildren, Elijah Kerley, Madilyn Kerley and Elizabeth Nave; her sister-in-law, Phyllis Mays; her brothers-in-law, Dan Kerley and wife Dorothy, and Wayne Kerley; and a number of other family members and friends.

The funeral service will be held 4 p.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Mt. Hebron Baptist Church. Dr. James Smith and Pastor Tony Daniels will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Adams Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658. Condolences may be sent to www.adamsfunerals.com.

Adams Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to be serving the family of Betty Kerley.