Mary Elizabeth Durant (Betsy), 81 of Arlington, Tennessee passed away on June 18 at her home. She is survived by her devoted husband Al Jerome Durant, Sr. with whom she shared her life. They were married 63 years and three children were born of the union. She was the fourth child of five; her only remaining sibling Nancy Hunter (Robert) will greatly miss her. She is survived by her son David C. Durant ( Cathy), her daughter Beth E. Comstock (Gary) and four grandchildren, Jason J. Durant (Janine) , Philip J. Eldridge, Samantha C. Durant (Ben) and Carolyn D. Durant (John.).
Her great grandchildren were the light of her life: Alice Catherine Durant Racher, Miles Jerome Durant, Milo Gerard Durant, Heath Edward James and six day old Max Al Durant. Betsy was preceded in death by her parents Carroll and Eunice Boydstun, her son Al J. Durant, Jr. and her grandson Andrew David Durant, two sisters and one brother. She went by many names: Betsy, Baby, Mama, Sis, Aunt Bet, and the Boss, but grandchildren made her Nanny and that is who she became not only to her legacy of children but to just about every child she knew.
Betsy loved Rome fiercely for 63 years. She had lifelong friends from high school still in her life Bobbie, Edith and long Sam were her people. If you were lucky enough to meet Nanny she was someone you would never forget. She loved to garden, decorate her home, cook, spend time with her family, watch University of Memphis Tigers play ball, play Jeopardy!, read a good book and to debate you at the drop of a hat. She was always right! Her spirit will live on in her husband, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Dad told me yesterday what a truly wonderful life they have had together. Go rest high on that mountain sweet Mama; you were so loved. Your work is done.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.FamilyFuneralMemphis.com for the Durant family.
