The first time I met Betty, she hugged me so hard I couldn't breathe! It was at my wedding rehearsal dinner and many of Bob's family traveled from Virginia to Tennessee to help us celebrate. She, along with her husband Pep, her mother Virginia, her daughter Beverly and son in law Paul, were so welcoming to me and really made me feel like I was a part of the family already. Betty always introduced me as her "cousin" and we tried to figure out if there was a way to really define a cousin by marriage on your mother's side! When our daughter was born, we called her Aunt Betty and she was always so kind and sweet to Chelsea. She never missed an opportunity to ask about her and how she was doing in school. She was so proud of her children and grandchildren. I loved to watch her face light up as she told me of their accomplishments and adventures in life. Thank you for making me a part of the family.
Betty was diagnosed with cancer about 4 months ago and as her body weakened, her spirit did not. She knew what would happen and was ready to be embraced by the loving arms of our Lord. She tried many treatments and sought care from other places in an effort to add days or moments with her family. She was positive and hopeful, but resigned that God had a plan for her life and she would be a witness to those doctors and nurses who cared for her during her treatments. Thank you for showing me a gracious spirit.
Betty lost her battle with cancer yesterday but I know she ran, rejoicing and singing to meet our Lord. This beautiful obituary was posted yesterday http://www.covenantfuneralservice.com/obituaries/betty-jefferson-blaisdell/ and speaks of a life well lived. Thank you for being the face of Jesus in the world.
Betty was outspoken, never afraid to say how she felt or give her opinion. I loved to tease her when she said something outrageous and she would just laugh and laugh with her infectious laughter, tossing her head back and smiling broadly. She spent so much time tutoring children and it brought her great joy when the light came on in someone's eyes as they understood a new word. Thank you for going out into the world and being a teacher to so many.
Betty was a wonderful hostess, opening her lovely home to friends and family. When we had meetings there for various church committees, she would make you feel as if you were her honored guest. At Christmas time, our family and hers would gather for what we came to call the "Pie Party". She would gather apples in the fall and save them to make delicious pies, set a beautiful table and we would sit for hours and talk about our lives, share stories of family members and spend time in warm fellowship. Thank you for keeping those connections strong.
I am blessed for having known Betty and celebrate her life, a life well lived indeed.
So, as we gather to remember her and to share her life with each other, I encourage you to share your memories of her with Beverly and Preston. She loved well, she lived well and her spirit will live with us forever.
