Genevieve Privette Batchelor

ROCKY MOUNT – Genevieve Privette Batchelor, age 94, passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025.  Born in Nash County, NC on May 6, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Howard Privette and Foye Hodge Privette.  She was also preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, William “Bill” Hill Batchelor.

Genevieve received her early education in the Rocky Mount school system and graduated from Rocky Mount High School in 1949.  She went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree from Wake Forest University in 1953.  That same year, she married the love of her life, Bill.  After completing college, she accompanied Bill as he served in the US Army Corp of Engineers in Anchorage, AK.  After his service, they returned home to Rocky Mount, where they would raise their family and build a life together.  Genevieve was an active member of her community.  She was a devoted lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church of Rocky Mount and faithfully delivered Meals on Wheels for over 30 years. She was also a past member of the Junior Guild, the Worthwhile Study Club, the Twentieth Century Study Club, and Benvenue Country Club.  Above all, Genevieve was a loving mother and grandmother whose gentle spirit, warm heart, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In her own words, five years ago, she shared this message with her sons:  “This is not an easy thing to do.  Just remember that I love all of you and will miss you. Stick together and be there for each other.” – Mom

Genevieve is survived by her sons, William Robert “Bob” Batchelor and wife, Donna, and Bradford “Brad” Hodge Batchelor and wife, Emily; and her grandchildren, William “Will” Hill Batchelor, II and Brooks Allen Batchelor.

A Celebration of Genevieve’s Life will be held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church of Rocky Mount, 153 N. Church Street, Rocky Mount, NC  27804 with Rev. John Winings and Dr. Preston Smith officiating.

A special gathering of family and friends will be held at Benvenue Country Club from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM following the service.

A private family inurnment service will take place at First Presbyterian Church Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Genevieve’s memory to First Presbyterian Church of Rocky Mount, designated for Meals on Wheels, 153 N. Church Street, Rocky Mount, NC  27804.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.