FRANKLIN — Dorothy Councill Beale, 96, a lifelong resident of Franklin and Southampton County, died on Sept. 15, 2017.
She was born on June 29, 1921, to the late Robbie C. Councill and Ruby Howell Councill.
She was a retired teacher from the Franklin Public Schools.
For over 50 years her family owned and operated Blackwater Pallet Inc.
Her husband, John M. Beale, as well as a brother, Robbie C. Councill Jr., a sister and infant brother preceded her in death.
She was a graduate of Franklin High School and Madison College, now James Madison University. She was an outstanding member of her college class, serving as an officer of the student government. She attended the 60th anniversary of her college class reunion in 2002.
She was a member of the Franklin Congregational Christian Church, where she was the chairman of the Board of Trustees, clerk of the church for 22 years, Sunday School teacher, president of the Woman’s Fellowship, and served on numerous committees.
She was a member of the Franklin Literary Club, charter member and past president of the Franklin Woman’s Club, the Southampton Historical Society, the Rawls Museum of Arts and a faithful supporter of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Beale Cheshire and husband, Joseph B. Cheshire V, of Raleigh, North Carolina; her son, John Milton Beale Jr. of Carrsville, Virginia; three grandchildren, Joseph B. Cheshire VI and wife, Lindsay Cheshire; John Milton Beale Cheshire and wife, Michal Cheshire; and Juliette Faircloth Grummon-Beale and husband, Geoff Grummon-Beale; three great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins; wonderful neighbors; and devoted friends.
She most wants to thank the wonderful ladies that stayed with her. They offered her so much love and comfort.
The graveside service will be at 2 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 18, in Poplar Spring Cemetery, Franklin, with the Rev. James H. Hyatt Jr. officiating.
The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall of the Franklin Congregational Christian Church after the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Franklin Congregational Christian Church, 412 N. High St., Franklin, VA 23851. or to the American Cancer Society.
www.wrightfuneralhome.org.