News Summary
The Chattanooga community is mourning the loss of Betty Katherine McDonald, who passed away at the age of 84. Known for her warm smile and dedication to her neighbors, Betty spent over three decades serving her community. Her involvement in local ministries, culinary skills, and love for family created a lasting legacy. A public viewing and funeral service are planned for January 25, 2025, as the community comes together to honor her memory.
Chattanooga Community Mourns the Passing of Betty Katherine McDonald at 84
Chattanooga, Tennessee, is heartbroken this week as it bids farewell to one of its beloved residents. Betty Katherine McDonald peacefully passed away on January 5, 2025, at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and community spirit.
A Life Well-Lived
Born on April 1, 1940, to the late Mr. Walter Few and Mrs. Louise Few, Betty was a proud product of the Chattanooga Public School System. Throughout her life, she dedicated more than 30 years to serving her community, initially working at Howard Johnson and later as a cherished private housekeeper. Known for her warm smile and kind heart, she became a familiar face around the neighborhood, and her presence will be sorely missed by many.
A Devoted Community Member
Betty was an active member of the Thorns and Crowns Ministry, where she found joy in her faith and fellowship with others. Her devotion to others was evident—from Alton Park to the West Side, Betty had a profound impact on her community. Friends recall her incredible cakes, especially known for making life’s special moments even sweeter. Betty’s culinary skills meant she was the go-to for many gatherings, and her dishes brought smiles to many faces.
The Simple Joys of Life
Those who knew Betty cherished her for the simple pleasures she enjoyed. Spending afternoons on her porch, having heartwarming conversations with neighbors, and watching children play brought her immense joy. Visits from her children and grandchildren lit up her days, while her love for soap operas gave her an escape; she often referred to them as “The Stories.” Shows like All My Children and Days of Our Lives were her guilty pleasures and gave her something to look forward to each day.
A Home with Style
Betty had a unique penchant for ironing, taking great pride in ensuring that everything, including her pillowcases, was perfectly pressed. It’s those small but meaningful details that defined her character. She also had an infectious energy and loved to dance, often moving her shoulders and bending her knees whenever good music played.
A Loving Family
Betty’s family meant the world to her. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sons Tyrone Stewart, Sr. and Tony Few, grandsons Anthony Simon, Tyrone Stewart Jr., and Antonio Few, granddaughter Toninica Few, and her sisters Lucille Few Womble, Vienna Few, and Martha Ann Few Adams. She leaves behind her two loving daughters, Jackie (Stanley) Hubbard and Linda (Greg) Arnold; two sons, Michael (Verdell) Stewart and Roy (Rhonda) Richardson; and a large, loving family that includes 16 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Also mourning her loss are her brothers, Walter (Osceola) Few, Jr. and Alphonso Varnell Few, along with a host of relatives and friends.
A Final Farewell
The community is invited to come together for a final goodbye at a public viewing on Saturday, January 25, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by funeral services at the chapel of the funeral home. Interment will take place at Highland Memorial Gardens. Arrangements are being managed by the John P. Franklin Funeral Home, located at 1101 Dodds Ave., Chattanooga. For those needing assistance, the contact number is 423-622-9995.
As Chattanooga remembers Betty Katherine McDonald, her vibrant spirit and unwavering love for her family and community will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those she touched. May she rest in peace.
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- Chattanoogan: Betty Katherine McDonald
- Wikipedia: Community
- Chattanoogan: Hubbard Everly Grace
- Google Search: Chattanooga community
- Chattanoogan: Robinson Prince Egypt
- Google Scholar: Community impact
- Chattanoogan: Williams Robert Bobby
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- Chattanoogan: Schonschack Karen Kay Sullivan
- Google News: Chattanooga news
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
