Lynda Elizabeth Andrews Garris

DORTCHES – Lynda Elizabeth Andrews Garris, age 81, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, March 2, 2025.  Born in Edgecombe County, NC on February 1, 1944, she was the daughter of the late Robert Thurman Andrews and Myrtle Elizabeth Shearin Andrews.

Lynda dedicated her life to education, faith, and service.  A proud graduate of East Carolina University’s College of Education, she spent her entire career at Benvenue Elementary, where she touched countless lives as a teacher before becoming Assistant Principal.  After retiring in 1989, she continued to serve her community with the same passion and devotion that defined her career.  The daughter of a farmer, Lynda was deeply rooted in her faith and was a lifelong member of Dortches Baptist Church.  She was a steadfast advocate for her church, leading the kitchen committee for many years and ensuring warm meals and fellowship for countless gatherings.  Her servant’s heart extended beyond the church walls—she was a dedicated Ruritan Club member for eight years and faithfully worked as an election worker during voting seasons.  Lynda had a special love for Christmas, a season she made even more meaningful for her family by sharing her tradition of gifting ornaments.  This simple yet heartfelt gesture became a beloved part of her legacy, a reminder of the warmth, generosity, and joy she brought to those around her.

Lynda is survived by her husband of 62 years, Burnice Garris; her son, Robert Garris and wife, Christina; her grandchildren, Katelyn Garris Mills and husband, Matt, Jordan Garris, and Ethan Watson; her great-grandchildren, Austin Mills, Hudson Mills, and Colsen Hargrave; and extended family Tammy Watson and husband, Andrew, the Kluge family, the Foley family, and the Webb family.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Lynda’s life will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Dortches Baptist Church, 4776 Dortches Blvd., Rocky Mount, NC  27804 with Pastor Rick Gaskins and Pastor Keith Griffin officiating.  Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park.  The family will receive friends and relatives on Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Lynda’s memory to Dortches Baptist Church Kitchen Fund, 4776 Dortches Blvd., 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.