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July 17, 1944 – August 21, 2024

Judy Mann Waits, 80, of Manteo, passed away on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, peacefully at her residence.

Ms. Judy was born in Washington, NC, to the late Major Joseph A. Waits and Millicent Jennette Waits of Lake Landing, NC.

Judy was a graduate of East Carolina University. She was a teacher for a while, as well as worked in radio. Judy Waits is best known for owning Sam & Omie’s Restaurant in Nags Head, NC from 1977 until she retired. Though she retired, she continued to maintain an interest in Sam & Omie’s with her sister, Jakey Waits English, Teresa Merritt, and Carol Sykes.

Judy enjoyed surf fishing with the Different Drummers, Sam & Omie’s fishing team, and continued with them in spirit and organization until the end.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am, on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at St. George’s Episcopal Church Cemetery. The family will visit with friends following the service.

She is survived by her dog, Sofee Marie, a brother, Bill Waits of Engelhard, her niece, Bonnie Jo Waits of Wanchese, great-niece, Stormy Heroux, and great-great nephews, Wyatt and Gauge Cooper, her step-niece, Charlene Mann and many beloved cousins and close friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Jakey Waits English, and Bonnie Jo Waits.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. George’s Episcopal Church P.O. Box 101, Engelhard, NC 27824 or to the Dare County SPCA PO Box 2477, Manteo NC 27954

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service, Swan Quarter.