She graduated in a class of 25 from Sedalia High School and attended Murray State College for her freshman year. On June 12, 1948, she married Louis J. Boyd, and they began a journey through life together that lasted an amazing, beautiful, love-filled 70 years. That journey included becoming the mother to four children who each will happily and eagerly tell you they won the lottery when it came to mothers.
Becky’s life was one of contrasts. From her small rural farm childhood, she lived in five different states, plus England. Becky and Louie’s adventures included trips with their children in a borrowed tent camper throughout the U.S., travel to four continents, as well as ocean and river cruises. Wherever they lived and wherever they went, Becky’s southern charm, genuine personality, beautiful smile and twinkling eyes attracted people to her. She collected friends everywhere, and her tremendous gift for hospitality served her well as the “hostess with the mostest.”
A product of the Great Depression, Becky early on learned the lesson of frugality, and never forgot it! As much as she could squeeze a dollar, she was also extremely generous with her time, talent, and treasure, and served as a wonderful role model for faithful servanthood. Over the years she served as a volunteer at her children’s schools and their activities, in each of the churches she called home, and as a partner to her husband in his professional role as a university faculty member. She earned her Ph.T degree (Putting Hubby Through) in 1951 at the University of Kentucky. A woman of many talents, including business skills, cooking, sewing, and shopping (always for a bargain), she was also proud to work part-time to contribute to her children’s college educations.
Becky is predeceased by her parents Walter and Gladys Conner and her five siblings. Her legacy will live on through her partner in life and love, Louie Boyd, her four children: Beverly (Tim) Gallagher – Carmel, IN; Beda (Andy) Cain – Athens, GA; Garth (Maria) Boyd – Vail, CO; Tina (John) Duckett – Gainesville, GA; her 12 grandchildren: Meghan Lentz, Caitlin Gallagher, Travis Gallagher, Jeremiah Smith, David Cain, Brandon Cain, Levi Boyd, Kristin Boyd, Cody Boyd, Garrett Boyd, Cameren Wilson and Joshua Mize; her 16 great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends. We will continue to love her like crazy, miss her every day, and enjoy telling stories about her for generations to come.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 29 from 5-8 p.m. at Bernstein Funeral Home in Athens, GA.
The memorial service is Friday, November 30 at 1 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, Athens. Interment will be at Evergreen Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to Central Presbyterian Church PCUSA, P.O. Box 48224, Athens, GA 30604 or the Rebecca Conner Boyd Scholarship Fund, Murray State University, Office of Development, 200 Heritage Hall, Murray, KY 42071.
Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
www.BernsteinFuneralHome.com
