Mrs. Elizabeth (Lib) Perkins Talley passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 29, 2018, at Vidant Medical Center at the age of 92. She was born on July 4, 1926, in Reidsville, to the late William Edward Perkins and Elizabeth Saunders Perkins. There was much joy upon her arrival as she was the first daughter after five sons. When she was three, Mrs. Talley moved with her family to Washington, where she spent the rest of her life. Following her graduation from Washington High School in 1944, Mrs. Talley attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (formerly Woman’s College). On Oct. 21, 1945, she married Thomas James Talley, Jr., the love of her entire life. For the 27 years prior to Mr. Talley’s sudden, unexpected death in 1972, they enjoyed much love, happiness and commitment to one another.

As an active, longstanding member of the First United Methodist Church in Washington, Mrs. Talley’s participation included service and representation on the building committee for the Fellowship Hall and the Education Building. In addition, she served on the Board of Trustees and the Administrative Board. As a member of the United Methodist Women, she held various positions including president, vice-president and treasurer. Lastly, she was a circle leader and helped with preparing communion for various worship services. The First United Methodist Church was an important and sustaining part of her life, especially after the death of her husband.

A very accomplished bridge player, Mrs. Talley enjoyed playing bridge with many friends over the course of many years. She was a member of the Sans Souci Book Club since the second year after its inception.

Mrs. Talley is survived by her four children: Dr. Thomas J. Talley, III and his wife, Shelly, of Chapel Hill; Elizabeth T. Lovette and her husband, Cullen, of Raleigh; Seth P. Talley and his wife Lyda, of Chocowinity; and Edward P. Talley, of Stuart, Florida. Her four grandchildren are Thomas B. Tayloe and his wife, Ainsley, of Beaufort, South Carolina; Edward P. Talley, Jr. and his wife, Brandi, of Wilmington; and Seth P. Talley, Jr. and David H. Talley, of Chocowinity. Her three great-grandchildren are Thomas B. Tayloe, Jr. and William Archie Tayloe, of Beaufort, South Carolina, and Edward P. Talley, III, of Wilmington. She was predeceased by her sister and five brothers.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, Aug. 3, 2018, at 4 p.m. in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Ken Hall, Jr. officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the church parlor.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 304 W. Second St., Washington, NC 27889.