Bettye Jean Rich, 81, of Ocala, FL, departed this life on Saturday, December 28, 2024.
Bettye was born on March 10, 1943, to Albert Johnson Sr. and Beatrice Johnson. She was the oldest of 19 children. She attended Fessenden High School until her senior year and graduated from Carver High School in Delray Beach, FL. She later attended Hampton Junior College in Ocala, FL, where she earned her Associate’s Degree and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Education from the University of West Florida in Pensacola, Florida. She married Lewis Rich Jr. on August 2, 1962, and had three children: Sylvonia Rich (Banks), Lewis Rich III, and Collis Rich. Her lifelong goal was to help educate children and positively impact their lives. She served as an educator at Choctaw High School for over 30 years before retiring and remained connected with her former students.
Bettye dedicated her life to service, acting as Sabbath School Superintendent and Community Services Leader for over 30 years at Fort Walton Beach SDA Church. She also co-established the Adventist Youth Ministries at Fort Walton Beach SDA Church and held numerous positions at Shiloh SDA Church, including Sabbath School Assistant Superintendent, Sabbath School Secretary, Disabilities Ministries Leader, and Stewardship Leader.
Bettye was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Sr. and Beatrice Johnson; sister Addie B; brother Collis; daughter Sylvonia Banks; son Collis Rich; and granddaughter Keira Banks.
She is survived by her husband, Lewis Rich Jr., and son Lewis Rich III of Ocala, FL. As well as her remaining siblings, grandchildren (5), great-grandchildren (9), and a host of loved ones and friends.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 9, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Sellers Funeral Home, Inc., located at 440 SW Broadway Street in Ocala.
A service will be held on Sunday, January 12, at 11:00 a.m. at Sellers Funeral Home, Inc., located at 440 SW Broadway Street in Ocala.