Lilie Maye Bennett Weaver

WEAVERVILLE - Lilie Maye Bennett Weaver, of Weaverville, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on January 24, 2026. She was born on June 22, 1943, in Cullowhee, Jackson County, North Carolina.

Lilie lived a life defined by independence, resilience, generosity, and deep devotion to family. She was known for her determination and for living life on her own terms, guided by quiet strength and an unwavering sense of self. Those closest to her knew her as sincere, steadfast, and deeply loyal.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, watching birds, tending her garden, and surrounding herself with flowers. These daily routines brought her comfort and reflected her thoughtful spirit and appreciation for beauty. Giving came naturally to Lilie, and throughout her life she supported a number of charitable causes with kindness and care.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alfred Fulton “Dugan” Weaver III; her brother, Floyd Allen Bennett; her sisters, Bessie Irene Bennett and Daisy Evelyn Bennett; and her parents, Leamon B. Bennett and Bessie Edna Woodard.

She is survived by her only child, Eric Keith Brown; her siblings, Mary Anne Bennett Wheatley, Larry Dale Bennett, John Ray Bennett, Ruby Christine Bennett Bryson, and Rosa Linda Bennett Baker; their spouses, James Earl Wheatley, Patricia Wheatley, Nina Gasperson, Dennis Muriel Bryson, and Gerald Baker; her half-brother, Steve Bennett, and his wife, Earlene; and her stepbrothers, Charles and Scott, and their wives, Teresa and Lisa, from her father’s second marriage to Elizabeth.

She is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Adam, Angela, Brenda, Brett, Chris, Connie, Donna, Henry, Lauri, Lisa, Melissa, Randy, Ronald, Scott, Stacey, and Tyler.

A celebration of life will be held at 2pm on Sunday, February 8, 2026 in the Chapel of West Funeral Home. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 12:45 to 1:45pm.

Lilie came from early families whose lives were shaped by perseverance, conscience, and a steady faith in moving forward, qualities she carried with her throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Lilie’s memory to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art or to the General Society of Mayflower Descendants.

Like her earliest forebears, she was not easily discouraged, meeting life with resolve and quiet strength.

West Family Funeral Services is honored to be serving her family. Condolences may be offered to the family under her obituary at www.WestFamilyFuneralServices.com.