Celebrating a Life Filled with Love, Art, and a Love of Nature

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Bebe Gower Way who left us peacefully on October 12, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. She was 79 years old.

Born on February 13, 1946 in Kinston, NC Bebe lived a remarkable life devoted to her family, friends, and community. Her unwavering generosity and warmth touched the lives of everyone she met. Bebe studied art at the Atlantic Christian College (now Barton College) in Wilson, NC and subsequently taught art to junior high school students for 5 years, then became a computer graphic artist for Fred B. Johnston Co. in Chapin, SC for 25 years. Upon retiring, Bebe joined the Crooked Creek Art League and enjoyed putting brush to canvas until her creations came to life. Bebe and her husband Norman were highly involved in work at Wightman Methodist Church in Prosperity with Bebe painting murals in the church as well as spending many hours constructing and painting props for Vacation Bible School in past years.

Bebe was the matriarchal cornerstone of our family, always offering to host family gatherings and providing homemade treats that made every occasion special. She taught us the value of hard work, the importance of family, and the beauty of unconditional love.

Bebe was preceded in death by her husband Norman Way, her parents Hollon (Tony) Earl Gower and Bettie Reynolds Gower, and her brothers Bennie Gower, Bobby Gower, and Wheeler (Buddy) Seth Gower.

When Bebe married Norman, she acquired three children: Charlotte Way Slate (Charlie), Nancy Way Rummage (Wayne), and Norman "Nick" Way (Karen). Bebe had 6 grandchildren: Corie Slate (Barbara), Evan Slate (Tiffany), Christopher Way (Sarah), Brandon Rummage, Eric Rummage (Amy), and Jennifer McGuirk (Mark). She had 6 great grandchildren: Jasper Slate, Emma Slate, Adalyn McGuirk, Callie Joy McGuirk, Ruby McGuirk, and Olivia Rummage. There are numerous relatives and friends who will cherish her memory forever.

Bebe's legacy will live on in the stories we share, the traditions we continue, the paintings she created, and the love she instilled in each of us. Though our hearts ache with her absence, we are comforted by the countless memories and lessons she leaves behind.

A private celebration of life will be held at her home in Prosperity, SC.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Wightman United Methodist Church in Prosperity, SC or some other charity of your choice.

Memories and messages may be left on her tribute wall.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Way family.