Elizabeth Parsons, 81, of Ocracoke, died on Saturday, Jan. 30.
Elizabeth was a daughter of the late James and Elizabeth Williams.
Elizabeth was a self-taught folk artist who specialized in scenes of the Ocracoke she remembered from growing up on the island. She often included depictions of the early post office, old general stores and churches, the mail boat Aleta and island churches. She sold her work and other gift items for more than 30 years in her Pamlico Gift Shop on Lighthouse Road.
She traced her roots to John Williams, who purchased one half of Ocracoke Island in September of 1759.
Elizabeth was a lifelong member of the Ocracoke Assembly of God where she taught Sunday school for many years.
Elizabeth is survived by a daughter, Edna McKelvey; sons, Leonard and Roger Parsons; five grandchildren, Beverly, Matthew, Leslie, Christian and Amanda; four great-grandchildren, Bella, Dessire, Gage and Autumn; a sister, Della Gaskill; and two nephews, Monroe and Parker Gaskill. Along with her parents, Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Parsons, and a son, Jim Parsons.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, in the Ocracoke Assembly of God with Pastor Ivey Belch officiating.
The family will receive friends and relatives following the service in the fellowship hall. Food will be received at the Ocracoke Island Assembly of God fellowship hall beginning at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Ocracoke Island Assembly of God, P.O. Box 68, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Twiford Funeral Home, Hatteras is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.twifordfh.com.
