Betty Jean Raco

With deep sorrow and boundless love, we share the passing of Betty Jean Sansing Raco, who left us on July 3rd at the age of 84. She was born on January 12th, 1941, in Pheba MS.

She graduated from Ramsay High School and attended the University of Montevallo.

Betty married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life Anthony Raco, upon his return from Italy where he was in the Navy serving his country, on December 7th, 1961.

She started the Shades Mountain Christian Bookstore and managed it for 26 years. It was her baby and felt the Lord called her to serve in the store, as much as any missionary to serve in the field. She loved her work and the people she served. But most of all she loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

She passed through life with little fanfare, but did leave a mark and was equally liked and loved by her circle of family and friends whose path she crossed. To know her was to experience laughter, encouragement, and a heart that always had room for more. Whether it was a warm hug or her favorite greeting to everyone of “Hey Sugar”, she made every person felt seen and cherished.

Betty is survived by her son, James Anthony Raco (Lisa); granddaughter, Anna Marie Raco Graham (Troup); grandson, Christopher Samuel Donze; great grandson, and Cypress Storm Donze; her cousin whom she loved as a sister, Imogene Irwin (Sonny); and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews as well as many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Anthony Raco; parents, James Robert Sansing and Zora Jaynes Sansing; and her brother Robert Lee Smith.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the love Betty gave so freely and the memories that will live with us forever.

A visitation for Betty will be held Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church of Birmingham, 2209 Lakeshore Dr., Birmingham, AL 35209. A celebration of life will occur Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM, 2209 Lakeshore Dr., Birmingham, AL 35209. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband at Elmwood Cemetery.