Betty McCulloh Padgett

Betty McCulloh Padgett, age 83, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 7th, 2025, after a valiant battle with dementia. She was born on January 31st, 1942, in Charlotte, NC, to the late Rufus and Bessie McCulloh.

The Padgett family will greet friends from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM, Thursday, the 13th of March, 2025 at McEwen Funerals & Cremations at Forest Lawn West. The Funeral Service will follow at 2:00 PM in the Chapel. Burial will be at Forest Lawn West Cemetery.

Betty was predeceased by her husband, Billy; her two sons: Jimmy Padgett and Mark Padgett; her grandson, James Steve Padgett; and her adopted nephew, Craig. She was also preceded in death by her siblings: Glenn, Shirley, Ruthie, Carl, and Linda.

She is survived by her brother, Jimmy, and two children: Vivian Webster (Dwaine) and Dean Padgett (Lisa). Betty leaves behind a legacy of love in her numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Throughout her life, Betty had many passions. She and Billy were avid cruisers, taking 27 cruises together, including one unforgettable trip where they treated their entire family, creating memories that will be cherished forever. Betty also loved traveling to destinations like Vegas and Atlantic City, where she and Billy shared many special moments.

Betty was known for being fiercely independent and having a natural talent for creating beauty in everything she did. She was a devoted hairstylist throughout her life, and had a remarkable flair for flower arrangements, home décor, and cooking. One of her greatest joys was preparing meals for her family, especially her famous dressing, which was always a Thanksgiving favorite.

Family was the center of Betty’s life. She was a loving and devoted mother who kept her children close throughout their lives. She cherished every moment with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Above all, Betty’s love for Jesus and her faith gave her comfort, knowing that her forever home was in Heaven, where she would be reunited with all of her loved ones.

Betty and her husband, Billy Padgett, married in 1957, and their bond remained strong until Billy’s passing in 2020. Together, they had four children: Jimmy Padgett (Beverly) and their children: Stephen (Rhiannon) with grandchildren: Madison, William, Jathan and Tate; Sheena Thomas and her children: Hunter and Hannah; Justin Padgett (Melissa) and their children: Easton and Caden; Vivian Webster (Dwaine) and their children: Shawn (Heather) with grandchildren: Olivia and Natalie; Devan (Janna) with children: Charlie and Maggie; Dean Padgett (Lisa) and their daughter, Nicole.

Betty also leaves behind her adopted niece, Sandra, from her late sister Shirley, as well as her nephew/grandson, Christopher. She was a loving aunt to many nieces and nephews, each of whom she cherished deeply. Betty’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at The Landings of Cabarrus for the compassionate care they provided in her final days.

Lastly, Betty’s favorite song was Evergreen by Barbara Streisand. Whenever you hear it, may it bring you comfort and remind you of her warmth, love, and the beautiful memories she leaves behind.