Frances “Betty” Cobb Gurnell insisted that her obituary contain something frivolous, so here goes. She would have wanted you to stop to pet a stray dog or cat, to call an old friend and talk for a spell, to make a new friend by striking up conversation in an elevator – or on aisle 9 of the grocery store, while waiting for the dentist, or enjoying a post – concert reception. Of course, she understood better than most of us this truth: an encounter which seems frivolous at first can blossom into a deep and abiding relationship.
Born in Atlanta, Georgia to Isaac Osceola Cobb and Frances Cochran Cobb on September 25, 1947, Betty rarely bumped into anyone with whom she couldn’t converse, animals and introverts included. In 1969, she graduated with a degree in mathematics from Queens College, where she would later be honored as a distinguished alumna for her service to her alma mater and to her community. Betty went on to establish a career in juvenile justice, often advocating for restorative rather than punitive justice, especially for those impacted by trauma and systemic poverty.
Betty was up for a conversation on a wide array of topics, but her delight and pride were most evident when she spoke of her closest relationships. She was committed to funding cancer research and walked many miles to raise many dollars toward a cure, joining her daughter, Laura, and best friend, Sue, for Avon Breast Cancer Walks. She adored her husband, Dale, and their many grandchildren, Jordan, Tristen, Tyler, Austin, and Brittany, and would gladly regale you with tales of their adventures.
Preceded in death by her husband, Dale Gurnell, and her grandson; Tyler Sims, Betty is survived by her daughter; Laura Strickland (Kevin); grandsons, Jordan Bradley and Austin Strickland (Haley); granddaughters, Tristen Hoffman and Brittany Strickland; brother, Ike Cobb (Margaret); nieces; Allison Barrett (Austin) and Emily Hart Breece (Brad); her beloved rescue dog, Bonnie; and many friends who became extended family, especially Susan Yeres, a long – time colleague and best friend.
Betty radiated joy even as she fought for others from all walks of life. She was a lifelong Presbyterian and an active member in chancel choirs, in her beloved women’s circles, and in mission and advocacy groups within her church and community. She taught those of us lucky enough to have known her to love with fierce and abiding commitment, and she reminded us, too, that we were worthy of love in return.
Though she died at the age of 76, Betty, ever the math major, rounded up so as to celebrate her 80th birthday just a smidge early. We hope you will celebrate her one precious and unrepeatable life by foregoing the flowers and donating instead either to Queens University of Charlotte or to Shandon Presbyterian Church, both places of hope through which betty’s determination to offer a flourishing future for all people still brightly shines.
A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 am on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Shandon Presbyterian, 607 Woodrow Street, Columbia, SC 29205.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.11.0