Betty Jean Evers, 86, of Hope Mills, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026 at Duke University Medical Center in Durham.

Born on June 21, 1939, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, Betty was the daughter of the late John Gray Riddle and Lucy Cain Riddle. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jimmy Ray Evers, as well as her brothers, Robert Riddle and Joseph B. Riddle.

Betty dedicated much of her life to serving her community as a school bus driver for Cumberland County Public Schools, faithfully transporting and caring for students for more than 30 years. She was known for her kindness, dependability, and caring spirit. A woman of faith, Betty was a devoted member of Green Springs Baptist Church, where she found joy in worship and fellowship. She was also active in the Green Springers Senior Citizen Group. Betty had a deep love for music and especially enjoyed playing the piano and singing, sharing her talents and love of music with those around her.

She leaves to cherish her memory her sons, David Thaggard (Vickie), Rodney Thaggard (Sheila), and Steven Thaggard (Lynn); sisters, Barbara A. Peters and Frances Whittaker; seven grandchildren, David L., Dana, Jake, Tabatha, Traci, Kara and John; eight great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Green Springs Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. Steve Kirk. Visitation will be held beginning at 11:00 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall prior to the service. Interment will follow in the Green Springs Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Green Springers Senior Citizen Group c/o Green Springs Baptist Church, 1095 E. Green Springs Rd., Parkton, NC  28371.

McNeill-Legacy Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.