Ms. Benalee (Hannah) Pitts Stuart, age 81, of Lavonia, passed away Friday, May 17, 2019 at the home of her son.
Born November 30, 1937, in Haywood County, NC, she was the daughter of the late Ben and Ruth (Smith) Hannah. After graduation from high school in Haywood County, she married William Pitts, Jr. After William's death, Benalee and her son moved to Atlanta, where she owned and operated a hair salon, Coiffers by Benalee, for more than thirty years. She moved to Lavonia to be near her son and she continued her work as a beautician at the Clary Center and to a few customers at her home. She will be remembered as a loving mother and friend. Benalee was a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Hartwell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband: William Pitts, Jr.; and nephew: Randy Hannah.
She is survived by her son & daughter-in-law: Michael & Andrea Pitts; granddaughter & grandson-in-law: Angelia & Brad King; brother & sister-in-law: Harold & Barbara Hannah; nephew & niece-in-law: Terry & Kelly Hannah; and many friends.
The funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at the chapel of Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia with Rev. Terry Meeks and Rev. Courtney Umbehant officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1:00 p.m. until the service. The graveside service will be held 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at Crawford Ray Memorial Gardens in Clyde, NC.
Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.stricklandfh.com.