News Summary
The Cleveland community is mourning the passing of Betty Jo Haralson, an 88-year-old matriarch remembered for her dedication to family and service. Betty passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 2, 2025. A beloved figure, she was a cherished mother, grandmother, and a committed volunteer, notably with Civitan Clubs, where her leadership positively impacted many lives. A service to honor her legacy will take place on February 10.
Cleveland Community Mourns the Loss of Local Matriarch Betty Jo Haralson
In Cleveland, a beloved figure has left us, and many in the community are feeling the weight of her loss. Betty Jo Haralson, an 88-year-old gem, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on February 2, 2025. Her journey began on March 22, 1936, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where she was born to Frank and Opal Conley.
A Life Filled with Love and Dedication
Betty’s life was a testament to both family values and community service. She was the devoted wife to her husband, Ted M. Haralson, with whom she shared an incredible 60 years of marriage before he passed away. Together, they created a vibrant family filled with love and laughter, which includes their children, Tim, Mary, Mark, and Courtney, along with several cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Her education laid a strong foundation for her successful career. Betty graduated high school from the esteemed Girls Preparatory School in Chattanooga and went on to attend the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and later McKenzie College. Her career as a realtor spanned over 30 years, and she was well-respected in her field as a member of the Cleveland and Chattanooga Board of Realtors.
Service Beyond Self
What truly set Betty apart was her dedication to volunteerism. With a heart for helping others, she joined numerous Civitan Clubs and was instrumental in several initiatives, including the Special Olympics. As a charter member of both the Athens Civitan Club and the Bradley County Civitan Club, Betty’s leadership shone brightly, especially during her terms as president of these clubs. She served on several committees, earning multiple District Service Awards and International Honors, including a significant position as President of Civitan International from 2006 to 2007.
Passions and Hobbies
While Betty was devoted to her community, family always came first. She took immense joy in attending her children’s and grandchildren’s sports events. Her love for life extended to various hobbies, including painting, rooting for the University of Tennessee football team, and reading. Betty also enjoyed the art of canning fresh produce and making cherished memories camping with her family. For over 50 years, she taught Adult Ladies Sunday School classes, first at Meadowview Baptist Church and later at Calhoun Baptist Church. Her unwavering faith was central to her life.
A Tender Farewell
Betty’s family and friends will gather for a Remembrance of Life Service on February 10, 2025, at Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation Services North Ocoee Chapel, with Reverend Bill Mason officiating. The graveside service will follow on February 11 at Chattanooga National Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Ted.
Community Support and Kindness
The family has expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the support received from the staff at Garden Plaza, Hearth Hospice, and the caregivers at Avernes Home Care, who provided exceptional care for Betty in her final days. In lieu of flowers, they encourage donations to the Civitan International Research Center in Birmingham, Alabama, as a way to honor Betty’s legacy of service and love.
Friends are invited to pay their respects from 4 to 6 p.m. on February 10 at the funeral home, offering a chance for the community to come together and celebrate the life of a truly remarkable woman.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Betty Jo Haralson Obituary
- Wikipedia: Community Service
- Chattanoogan: Betty Jo’s Service to Community
- Google Search: Volunteerism
- Chattanoogan: Remembrance of Life Service
- Google Scholar: Community Values
- Chattanoogan: Donations in Betty’s Honor
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Chattanoogan: Betty’s Family Life
- Google News: Betty Jo Haralson
