On Tuesday, May 7, 2024, Ethel Odell Batts surrounded by family transitioned from her earthly house and entered eternal rest with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Ethel was born February 23, 1942 to the late James Harrison and Sallie Ann Batts-Weaver in Tarboro, NC.  After moving to the Newsome Park area of Newport News, Va in 1943, she started and completed her formal education by graduating from GW Carver High School in 1959.  After high school, she pursued a career in nursing. According to her, that's when she discovered she would faint at the sight of blood.  Her love however was Culinary Arts.  So, she enrolled in various courses and earned Certificates of Merit all while performing on-the-job training at Gino's Restaurant in Hampton.  Even though she loved cooking and baking, she wanted more for her infant daughter and the rest of the family. Bigger city meant bigger pay.  Hello Washington DC! In 1968, Ethel began employment with the United States Postal Service. She had found her niche.  Her bubbling personality and courteous demeanor was perfect for customer relations. During her time in the DC area, she continued personal growth as well.  She was baptized and became a member of Pleasant Grove Christian Community Church (Damascus Md).  In addition, she served as resident manager of her apartment complex and continued her expertise in culinary delights by baking cakes for the church and/or friends.  She retired in 2005 as Window Technician Supervisor with accolades, awards and lifelong friendships. Upon her return to the Hampton Roads area, she resided happily with her daughter and son-in-law and became a member of New Life Church (Hampton) and affiliated with Christ Community Outreach Center (Newport News).  She became an active member of the 50 Plus Club (Second Baptist East End); a member of the Hampton Senior Center; and secretary for the Class of 59 (GW Carver High School).

To cherish her memory, Ethel leaves behind her daughter Pamela M. Batts-Thomas (Bob); brothers Larry Batts (Barbara), Michael Weaver (Mildred-dcd.); sister, Gail Tinsley; a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and a countless number of friends like George, Delores, Evelyn, and Maria.

Ask Ethel "How ya doing?"  Her reply was "I'm kicking but not to high."  She loved to cook, bake, savor a meal, laugh and see people enjoy life.  Be you friend or stranger, a brief conversation with her would have you smiling and/or laughing. To say she will be missed by all who knew her is truly truly an understatement.

WE LOVE YOU ETHEL AND ALWAYS WILL!

Viewing will be held May 17, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, Va. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 18, 2024 at New Life Church, 1525 Powhatan Parkway, Hampton, Va.