Betty Mills Marchant, aged 93, passed away on Monday, October 23, 2023, in Memphis, Tennessee. She was born on August 26, 1930, to Charles and Ina Mills, who preceded her in death. Betty's journey began in Memphis, Tennessee, where she met her beloved husband, Jerry, at a church youth event while she was a student at Highland Academy in Portland, Tennessee. Their enduring love story led to a marriage in Memphis on August 31, 1949, which blessed them with 74 years of a joyful and enduring partnership.
In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by four brothers, a sister, a niece, and a son-in-law.
Betty's life was characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, and her deepest passions revolved around her faith in God and her devotion to her family. As a lifelong member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, she played a foundational role as a charter member of the Olive Branch Seventh-day Adventist Church. Betty was an active participant in her church community until illness and physical limitations prevented her from attending.
Following her graduation from Highland Academy in 1948, Betty embarked on a dedicated career as the office manager at Dr. B.E. McLarty's new medical practice. Over 45 years of unwavering commitment, she contributed significantly to the office's success through her ambition, dedication to excellence, faithfulness, and respect for all.
A Christian education was a top priority for Betty, and she ensured all four of her children received one despite the 30-mile distance to the Adventist school. She was wholeheartedly engaged in her children's educational journeys and was a dynamic presence in her church. Betty held numerous leadership roles throughout her life, sang in the church choir, chaperoned countless field trips, served as Home and School leader multiple times, and spearheaded numerous fundraisers.
Betty was a devoted daughter, a loving wife and mother, and a source of joy to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was celebrated for her wit, intelligence, fun-loving spirit, and unparalleled kindness. Betty was not only a cherished member of her community but also a loyal servant of God.
Betty's family, which include, her adoring husband, Jerry Marchant Sr., and her four children: Julie Marchant Smith (Bruce), Barbara Marchant Anderson (Bill), Jerry Marchant Jr. (Sherry), and J. David Marchant (Addie). Betty's legacy also includes five grandchildren: William G. Anderson Jr. (Kim), Russell Anderson (Fareen), Joshua Anderson (Katie), Jerry Marchant III (Stephanie), Sam Marchant (Emily), and nine great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews, cherished her deeply.
Betty now rests peacefully, eagerly awaiting the day when she will witness the return of Jesus and be reunited with her loved ones, fully restored in mind and body.
A funeral service to celebrate Betty's life will be held on Monday, October 30, 2023, at 10:00 am, with visitation beginning at 9:00 am at Brantley Funeral Home, located at 6875 Cockrum St., Olive Branch, Mississippi. Following the service, she will be laid to rest at Byhalia Cemetery in Byhalia, Mississippi.
