Betty Jean Ladner

Born on August 20, 1932, Betty lived a long and faith-filled life. She went to Savannah School through the 10th grade where she played basketball. At 16, Betty married the love of her life, Russ. She worked for a period of time at Movie Star Factory in Poplarville but spent most of her time as a homemaker caring for her family, where she was affectionately known as Momma and Granny. She was a devoted follower of Christ whose love for Jesus shaped everything she did. Her Bible was never far from her side, and her prayers were a source of strength and comfort for her family.

Betty was known for her kindness, her warm smile, and her unwavering faith. She cherished her family deeply and prayed they would all have a personal relationship with Christ. Whether she was singing hymns, doing arts and crafts, feeding her hummingbirds, or spending time with her family, she found joy in the simple things and lovingly cared for her family. When you visited, she always had a pot of coffee ready, and you left with a belly full of home cooked food. Granny’s pecan pies are famous and were always a staple during the holidays!

At 93 years old, Betty leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and service that will continue to inspire those who knew her. Though she will be deeply missed, her family rejoices knowing she is now at rest in the arms of her Savior and reunited with her loving husband, Russ Ladner, of 58 years.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Russ Ladner; parents, George Lee and Ava Walters Lee; one brother, Robert Lee; her only sister, Barbara Ann Lee Walley; and one infant son who died at birth.

Left to cherish her memories are one brother, Roger Dale Lee; two children, Wayne (Sharon) Ladner and Elaine (Denver) Ladner; four grandchildren, Chris (Connie) Ladner, Emilie (Brunus) Cuevas, Malena (Warren) Martin, and Alicia (Jeffrey) Flynn; 14 great grandchildren and 14 great-great grandchildren.

A celebration of Betty’s life will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Plainview Baptist Church where she was a faithful member for over 50 years. Visitation at 3:00 p.m. and service at 4:00 p.m. Burial immediately following at the church cemetery.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

II Timothy 4:7-8