Julia White Capps

Julia White Capps, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and community member, passed away in Sanford, North Carolina on Wed. April 24, 2024.

She was born in Stovall, NC, to Ernestine Frazier and Joseph Royal White. Julia was preceded in death by her husband, Allen Earl Capps, her sister Marjorie White Faucette, and brothers David and Gerald White.

Julia's life was one of dedication and service to others. She married Allen Capps in 1957, and their love endured until his passing in September 2008. Together, they created a loving family and shared many precious memories.

A woman of great intelligence and determination, Julia graduated from Stovall High School in 1957. Despite being a mother of three young children, she pursued higher education at Chowan College and East Carolina University, where she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in education. Julia's passion for teaching was evident in her commitment to her students and her profession. She was among the first in the State to receive National Board Certification, a professional certification designed to develop and recognize accomplished teachers. She was a proud member of the teaching staff at Jamesville Middle School, W.B. Wicker Middle School and West Lee Middle School where she touched the lives of countless students.  

In addition to her professional achievements, Julia was a dedicated member and Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church in Sanford. She found joy in serving her community and sharing her faith with others.

Julia's family meant everything to her. She is survived by her children: Stephen Capps (Jan) of Wrightsville Beach, NC, Jane Capps Casper (Kenny) of Williamston, NC, Leigh Ann Capps Harris (Dee) of Whispering Pines, NC, and Edward Hudson Cotten of Sanford, NC. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Morgan Rutherford, Michael Masten, Catherine Groth, Kristine Lindsey, and Capps, Bonny and Graham Harris. A special friend, who was like another son, Gerald McLeod of Sanford, NC, was near and dear to her heart.  Her love for her family was unwavering, and her legacy of kindness and generosity will live on through them.

Known for her exceptional cooking skills, Julia's kitchen was a place of warmth and comfort. Her homemade biscuits, chicken and dumplings, yeast rolls, and coconut pies were legendary. She shared her love through the meals she prepared, and those who had the privilege of enjoying her dishes knew they were in the presence of someone truly special.

The family of Julia White Capps would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the caregivers at Parkview Retirement Center and the Liberty Healthcare and Hospice staff who provided compassionate care to Julia in her final days. Their dedication and kindness will always be remembered.

Julia's life was marked by love, faith, and service to others. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her memory will continue to inspire and uplift those who were touched by her presence.

Visitation will be held at First Baptist Church in Sanford, North Carolina on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11:30 a.m.  A graveside service will be held at Royster Cemetery, Bullock, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Carolina, 1414 Bragg Street, Sanford, North Carolina 27330