Betty Lou Phillips Avery, 80, passed away Sunday morning, May 17, 2020 at her daughter's home. Betty was born on August 14, 1939 in Ashe County to George B. Phillips and Christie Barker Phillips. She was a longtime member of Jefferson United Methodist Church and enjoyed singing in the church choir. Betty retired from Hanes Corporation in 1992 and later worked part-time at Libby's clothing store. Betty served for many years as the Democratic Chief Judge at the Jefferson Precinct. Betty is survived by her husband of 31 years, Pete Avery, of Jefferson. She is also survived by two daughters, Charlene Church Austin of Fleetwood; and Marlene Church Wilson and husband Eric of Boone; two grandsons, Chase Stephen Dillard of Boone and Corbin Avery Dillard of Boone; one brother, Charles B. Phillips and wife Terry of Charlotte; several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by a brother, Jimmy Hash and a sister, Claudine Barton. Betty's greatest joy was her family, especially her grandsons, Chase and Corbin, who she loved with all her heart. She enjoyed the flowers Pete grew for her and watching Carolina Tarheel basketball while talking on the phone with Ruth Gambill and Evelyn Jones. Graveside services for close friends and family will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2020 at 2pm at Ashelawn Memorial Gardens in Jefferson, NC. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Jefferson United Methodist Church, PO Box 206, Jefferson, NC 28640 or Medi Home Hospice, PO Box 421, Jefferson, NC 28640