Emerald Isle-Elizabeth Moriarty Wootten passed away October 5, 2025, surrounded by her family in her home. Beth was born January 28,1941 the daughter of the late Anna and David Moriarty, in Mt Kisco, NY, a railroad suburb of New York City. Beth was predeceased by her brother, Timothy, and is survived by her sisters, Veronica, Frances and Helen. Beth met and dated her husband, John while attending St Mary's High School. They were married in 1962, a day after John was commissioned as a naval officer.

Beth became a partner and loyal Naval wife moving from one ship and duty station to another, including two ships in California during Vietnam, two years in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and a Carrier based in Norfolk, Virginia. She ultimately settled and "retired" In Northern Virginia.

She was the mother of six children, Annmarie of Emerald Isle, Mark (Kathy) of Ashburn, VA, Monica (Ben) of Williamsburg, VA, Marybeth (Chris) of Fairfax Station, VA, Jay of Emerald Isle, and Jessica (Dr. Ed) of Williamsburg, VA.  She was blessed (her words) to have and care for 15 grandchildren, almost all of which are within driving distance of the beach and come regularly. She is also blessed to have 12 great grandchildren. She loved to have this crowd visit and enjoy the beautiful beach. The love of her life was family and her big house to hold them all.

After her youngest started school, Beth and her family cared for foster babies, most of whom would stay with the family from birth until about three or four months, when they would be adopted into a permanent family.  Beth had an amazing way with babies and shared this gift lovingly. Over the years, Beth and her family cared for 16 foster babies until her own grandchildren started to come along.

Beth and John bought a house in Emerald Isle in 1987, retired there in 1996 and became members of St. Mildred, participating in many support functions. Her favorite job was working at the Hem of His Garment in the family support section providing direct support to needy families. Beth was fully supportive of John's election as a Town Commissioner which she often phrased as "the only sport in town".  She also thoroughly enjoyed her many friends and wonderful neighbors.

Visitation will be at Jones Funeral Home in Swansboro, NC Sunday October 12 from 1-3 pm and 6-8 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St Mildred Catholic Church in Swansboro, NC at 11 am on October 13. Burial will follow the Mass at Seaside Memorial Park 1161 Hammock Beach Rd Swansboro, NC.