Betty Jean Washington

Betty Jean Washington 85, of Charlotte, passed away June 7, 2026 surrounded by her family. Born August 9, 1940 in Chicago, IL, she was the daughter of the late Mack and Maggie (Chapman) Gillard. She was the wife of the late Joseph Washington.

A graduate of Farragut High School in Chicago, IL. She went to further her studies at Chicago State University where she obtained her Master's Degree in Social Work. She was the CEO and founder of A Better Way Foundation.

An avid reader, Betty enjoyed visiting her family in Greenville, SC, traveling, cooking and helping others in the community.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughters, Melissa Gillis and Diana Washington; grandchildren, Anthony Joseph Smith, Kristin Jazmyn Hanks and Daniel Jesus Washington; sisters, Maxine Anderson and Trudy Howard; brother, Dr. Mack Chapman Jr.; along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, Betty was preceded in death by her sons, Nathan Gillis and Kevin Gillis; siblings, Virginia Chapman and Jimmy Chapman.

A service to celebrate Betty's life will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, June 20, 2026 in the chapel of McEwen Funerals & Cremations at Forest Lawn West, 4601 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, NC. Online condolences may be submitted at www.forestlawnwest.com