Betty Faulkner Dodrill McDonald

Betty Faulkner Dodrill McDonald, 81, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Her Presbyterian faith never wavered, and she departed this life following the final amen of the prayer of commendation.

Betty was born in Cumberland County on January 29, 1944, to chemist and musician LeRoy Faulkner and Red Cross nurse and homemaker Inez Truelove Faulkner. She was preceded in death by her son, Wilmer Allen (Mackey) McDonald III; her brother, James (Buddy) Dodrill; and her nephew, Christopher Dodrill.
She attended Orleans American High School in Orleans, France, where she excelled as captain of the cheerleading team, was active in various forms of dance, and was recognized with numerous honors, including Miss Orleans American High School, Football Homecoming Queen, Best Dancer, and Best Dressed of the Class of 1962.

Upon returning to Fayetteville, NC, and attending Worth Business College, Betty met and married Wilmer Allen McDonald Jr. in Raeford, NC. She became a co-owner of the family business, Raeford Cleaners, where she managed the books and assisted in operating the establishment. Later, she worked at Barbee Pharmacy, where she became well known in the community for her compassion and willingness to go above and beyond to help others.

Betty was a skilled homemaker, most passionate about her accomplishments in the kitchen. She had an eye for design and enjoyed many creative pursuits, including interior design, bow-making, and floral arrangements. Of all her talents and achievements, however, she was proudest of being a devoted mother and grandmother.

She is survived by her daughter, Heidi McDonald of Southern Pines, NC; her grandchildren, Maddox McDonald of Myrtle Beach, SC, and Mallory McDonald of Southern Pines, NC; her nephew, Travis (Teresa) Dodrill of Spindale, NC; and her dear friend, Audra McCormick of Laurinburg, NC, whose support was a constant blessing.

Betty will be remembered as a kind yet strong woman who fought bravely until the end. Her legacy of love, creativity, and faith will live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.

The family will announce a celebration of Betty's life at a later date.