Obituary: Betty Lou Barfield Trimboli

Betty Lou Barfield Trimboli, 86, of Kinston, passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2026. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, faithful servant and cherished member of her community who touched countless lives with kindness and grace.

For over 40 years, she faithfully served at Arendell Parrott Academy, where she dedicated her career to young people before retiring. She deeply loved her “APA children” and found great joy in keeping up with graduates long after they had left the academy. Students were never just students-they were like family.

She was known for her sweet spirit and genuine love for people. Music brought her great happiness, especially playing the violin, which she began learning at 62 years old, proof that it is never too late to pursue a new passion.

Betty treasured traveling with her husband and creating lasting memories together. Christmas was her favorite holiday, and she became well known for her beloved Christmas breakfast, a day long gathering filled with family, friends, laughter, and love.

She delighted in cooking for those she cared about and found simple pleasures in playing solitaire during quiet moments at home. A lifelong member of Queen Street United Methodist Church, her faith was a steady foundation throughout her life.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Paul Rocco Trimboli, parents, Oscar and Gladys Trimboli, and son-in-law, Michael Edward Whitley.

She is survived by her daughter, Dina Trimboli Whitley, grandson, Walker Alexander Trimboli Whitley, and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Arendell Parrott Academy at 1901 Dobbs Farm Rd., Kinston, NC 28504 or Queen Street United Methodist Church at 500 N. Queen St., Kinston, NC 28501.

The family would like to extend a very heartfelt Thank You to Clarence, Helen, Betty, Crystal, Vicki, Peaches, Angela, Evelyn, Pam, and Stephanie, for taking care of their mother and grandmother with such love and compassion and also to UNC Health Lenoir.

Her legacy of love, service, and devotion to others will live on in the many lives she so beautifully influenced. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

At Mrs. Betty’s request, a private graveside service will be held.