Betty B. McGowen

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Cecil James Bowling and Vivian Gray Bowling, and is survived by her three children, Florence Dodge (Ty), Sally DeMetz (Don) both of Birmingham, and Dr. Edward Stevens (Mary) of Troy. She loved her seven grandchildren, Jennifer Bolton (Harbin), Betsy Campbell (Max), Mary Gray DeMetz, Donald DeMetz, Edward DeMetz, Barclay Dodge (Molly), and Ashley Ward (John) as well as seven great-grandchildren, Lindsay and Courtney Bolton, Buddy, Charlie, and John Campbell, and Tyler and Treven Ward.

Betty was born and raised in Mobile, AL. After graduating from the University of Alabama at the close of WWII she married Ed Stevens, and the couple moved to Birmingham, his hometown. He was her loving husband for 12 years before he passed away leaving her with three young children. She devoted her life to them, and they appreciated and loved her in return. She later married and was predeceased by W. H. McGowen.

“Mrs. Stevens” was a favorite art teacher at both Crestline and Mountain Brook Elementary Schools. Her lifelong interest in history, art, and antiques led her to 25 years of enjoyment as one of the proprietors of The Chinaberry Antique Shop in Crestline Village. She was “The Friday Lady” and cherished her interactions with both customers and the community.

Betty enjoyed her memberships in Delta Delta Delta, the Myosotis Garden Club, the DAR, and other clubs. Her vivacious personality won her friends from all walks of life. She was a lifelong church member and strong Christian who looked forward to spending eternity in Heaven.

The family is grateful to the caregivers of the past seven years for their companionship and dedicated service.

A Celebration Visitation is planned for Monday, September 21, from 4 until 6 pm at Ridout’s Valley Chapel in Homewood. She will be buried in Mobile. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Foundations Early Learning and Family Center (Fairfield) or the Fisher House Foundation.