Betty H. Freeman

the late Lucious Henderson and Laura Mae Jones Henderson. Mom peacefully passed away on

February 16, 2025.

A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and aunt, Betty’s life and love will always

be remembered by her three children: Tommie (Renarta) Freeman III, Laura (Frank) Freeman

Williams, and Lisa (Will) Freeman Smith; three grandchildren: Zinard Freeman, Toni Williams,

and Mia Williams; two bonus grandchildren: Jaylen Smith, and Jahmal Smith; two great-grand-

children: Janelle Hart and Jadyn Hart, as well as a host of nieces and nephews. As the eldest

of twelve siblings, she shared a special bond with her close-knit family. Her memories will live

in the hearts of her siblings; Rudene Warrior, Ruthie Mae Shields, Forrest Henderson-Johnson,

Lucious “Buddy” (Beverly) Henderson, Dorthea JoAnn Henderson, Brenda (Freddie) Owens,

Marion Thornton, Nancy Etim-Edet, Mamie Carol “Cookie” Stewart, and Angelia Johnson. She

was preceded in death by her brother, the youngest of the twelve, Edward Henderson.

Betty was a lifelong scholar and passionate educator. She graduated as class valedictorian, from

East Depot High School in LaGrange, GA, earned her undergraduate degree from Fort Valley

University, Fort Valley, GA—where she graduated with cum laude honors and became a proud

member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. In 1976 Betty obtained her master’s degree from

Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA.

She began her career as a high school teacher in LaGrange before accepting a role as a

probation officer at Fulton County Juvenile Court, where she mentored troubled youth, inspiring

them to become responsible, kind adults. Beyond helping children, she also guided colleagues

in their professional growth, leaving a lasting impact in her field. After a distinguished career, she

retired as Deputy Chief Probation Officer of Fulton County, GA.

Betty was a voracious reader and had a deep love for traveling and fashion, she was always

meticulously dressed, carrying herself with grace and style. A woman of deep faith, she became

a member and Bible study teacher at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA where she

was a longtime member. Later, she joined Zion Hill Baptist Church, Atlanta, GA, her last church

home, where she was an active participant in Senior Noonday Bible Study. Betty lived her life

with purpose and devotion.

She also had a passion for horticulture, cooking, and collecting art sculptures. Above all, she

cherished time spent with her grandchildren and left an unforgettable mark on all who knew her.

Betty’s legacy of wisdom, kindness, and service will continue to inspire. She will be deeply missed

but forever remembered as a loving and supportive mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and

mentor.

Rest in peace, Betty H. Freeman. Your love and light will continue to shine in our hearts.