Betty Rene O'Quinn Tyson, 85 passed away at Whitaker Glen Retirement Community on April 11, 2015. She was the daughter of the late Josiah (Joe) B. O'Quinn and Ruth Roberts O'Quinn of Lillington. Born June 4, 1929, she graduated from Campbell College High School Preparatory Department and attended Hardbarger Business College. Betty was a member of Edenton Street Methodist Church.

She was employed by the Department of Cultural Resources in Raleigh for 28 years and retired in 1992. Betty was awarded the "Order of the Long Leaf Pine", the most prestigious award given only by the governor of the State of North Carolina. This award is presented to individuals who have a proven record of extraordinary service to the state through contributions to their communities, extra effort in their careers, and many years of service to their organizations. Betty researched and attained many artifacts from all over the state to preserve the rich culture and history of NC. Many of these are on display at the NC Museum of History in Raleigh.

Her parents and her brothers Joe, Cecil, Ralph and Earl preceded Betty in death.

She is survived by children JoAnne Tyson Lee of Raleigh; Robert James (Bobby) Tyson and wife of Raleigh; one grandson Ryan James Tyson of Raleigh; sister Lucille Brown of Lillington; brother Edward (Pat) O'Quinn of Lillington along with several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service for family and friends will be held on Saturday, April 18 at 11:00 AM at Spring Hill Methodist Church, 1960 Spring Hill Church Rd, Lillington, NC 27546, and interment immediately following at the cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hospice Foundation of America by calling 800-973-3938.

"A special thank you Toni, Ali, Sheila, Leavia, Cindy, Betty, Tammy, Sheri, Naomi, Peggy and all my many loving caregivers, and to my many friends and mentors that helped me along life's way."

"We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us". Joseph CampbellA funeral service for family and friends will be held on Saturday, April 18 at 11:00 AM at Spring Hill Methodist Church, 1960 Spring Hill Church Rd, Lillington, NC 27546, and interment immediately following at the cemetery.