Betty Rae was the epitome of Southern style and grace; she “owned” any room she entered. Ever styled in the latest fashion and always fabulously poised. Her beautiful smile, melodic voice-all that was needed to sweeten anyone’s iced tea! From an early age her passion was in design, numerous homes and businesses were transformed by her talented hands over the past few decades.
Following a successful run of School Bus ownership, having earned a business degree, she proceeded to conquer entrepreneurship by opening The Pineapple Nook Home Décor store in Fleming Island. From there she enhanced her flair for interior design, floral arranging, and Christmas decorating as a Vice President at Design Elements in Mandarin. Her beloved clients and co-workers becoming close friends. Even as her increasing symptoms limited her work hours, she continued to work her passion. The past holiday season she was able to help her son, Matthew, with his business and added elegance to homes in the Jacksonville area. Her customers and friends would agree, each Christmas tree or floral arrangement was a work of Art.
Those of us who were blessed to call her friend remained in awe of her beauty and kindness that emanated inside and out. She remained a selfless warrior, concerned more about her friends and family. She was a caring, compassionate listener, had a wicked sense of humor, contagious laughter and was not afraid to speak her mind or “call you out” if needed.
Betty Rae loved to work in her garden and loved her houseplants. Her favorite “Hobby” was time with her Grand boys, her one and only son, friends, and family. She was an avid reader and Cancer advocate. Her love of travel led her to explore Europe, ski in the snow-covered mountains, swim with dolphins and cook with Paula Deen! She also enjoyed time with her gal pals the “Golden Girls” on their many beach excursions that included sun, shopping, and wine.
Betty Rae’s most Prized title was that of Mom and Mimi. Left to treasure her memory are her son, Matthew Fitzhugh, his wife Aubree, sons Braxton and Hayden Fitzhugh. She also leaves behind her step grandchildren Chase and Brayden Buchanan. Also missing her is four legged companion, Rogue Pierre Fitzhugh (Rue).
Left to cherish the memories of her amazing soul sister, continue the laughter (and wine) through her tears, is lifelong best friend, Jayne Sanchez-Flanagan (and family). The Fitzhugh-Sanchez-Flanagan clans forever entwined in Love.
Betty Rae joins her mother, Betty Brown, and other family members in Heaven.
Surviving her are her father, Kenneth Brown, sisters Debra Ahearn & Donna Tompkins, nieces Tami & Brooke, cousins, Godson, great nieces, and nephews.
Her family would like to thank nurse, Sharon and staff from Community Hospice for the love and care they proved to our beloved Betty Rae during her final days here on earth.
Donations can be made in her memory to two of her favorite charities: Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance ocrahope.org or Hello Gorgeous of Hope Hellogorgeous.org
A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023 at 11am at First Baptist Church of Orange Park, 1140 Kingsley Ave., Orange Park, FL 32073. The visitation will begin at the church at 10am before the service. The burial will be held at 1pm at Riverside Memorial Park, 7242 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hgriversidefuneralhome.com for the Fitzhugh family.
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