Shortly before her 85th birthday, Bettye Sue Roberts Norris left her earthly home, on Sept. 29, 2023, for an eternal life in the arms of Jesus. Bettye’s passing was peaceful as she was surrounded by family and friends showering her with love and kindness, a reflection of the innumerable smiles and kisses that she so generously gave to all throughout her life.
Bettye was born Oct. 27, 1938, in Sparta, the only child of James Astor Roberts and Katie Novella Kinnard Roberts.
She was raised in White County, in the area of Walnut Grove, and attended Black Oak School and Walnut Grove School before graduating from White County High School. She blessed many patients at the White County Hospital as a nurse’s aide before her decades-long career at Red Kap (Vanity Fair) from which she retired. She loved her coworkers and would often connect a discussion of someone to a relative she once worked with. Granny Bettye was a devoted member of West Sparta church of Christ where she volunteered for many years after her retirement with the Stepping Stones school.
She never met a stranger and would introduce herself as “Bettye with an e,” but quickly add, “call me Granny Bettye!” Her sweet disposition led her to say to almost everyone, “I love you,” a phrase that effortlessly flowed from her heart and touched the lives of everyone she met. She loved desserts, her family, and friends. Especially during the last few weeks of her life, she made everyone feel loved by graciously giving them a kiss accompanied by her ever-present smile. Granny Bettye was a devoted fan of the Atlanta Braves, following the addition of new players and any trades of her favorite players. In her last days, she fondly reflected on her one trip to watch the Braves play several years ago.
Granny Bettye is survived by her beloved daughters, Kathy Norris Freeman and Wanda Norris Lynn. She was a cherished mother-in-law to Henry Lynn, Eric Rodell, and Mark Freeman. Granny Bettye was a loving grandmother to Catherine Allison, Rebecca Curry, Brad Rodell, Matt Rodell, and Benjamin Lynn. Her heart was further filled with joy by her great-grandchildren, Wesley Allison, Evie Curry, Avery Allison, Hayden Curry, Eli Curry, and Isla Allison. In addition to the people she loved so well, her many pets enjoyed their best life under Granny’s loving care.
A celebration of Granny Bettye’s life will be Oct. 28, 2023 to honor her memory at West Sparta church of Christ. Please join us for visitation 9-11 a.m., with the service immediately following as we share memories of this remarkable woman who touched so many lives with her laughter, kindness, and love.
