RET CSM Elizabeth Lacy Johnson

Our life is like an empty pitcher and as each new day begins, the pitcher begins to fill with life’s ups and downs until it overflows, which symbolizes the end of one’s life journey. But we leave a record of our accomplishments for others to follow.

On December 30, 1945 Elizabeth Lacy Johnson “BKA-Betty” began her journey of life. Born in Farley, Alabama to the parentage of Leo M. Lacy and Mary C. Lacy. She entered eternal rest on February 8, 2021 at Crestwood Hospital.

Betty was reared and educated in the Madison County School System, graduating from Council Training High School in the class of 1963. She continued her education and became a registered nurse. She was employed by Huntsville Hospital, Health South and the State. Her Nursing career lasted more than 45 years. She was a member of the Huntsville Hospital Nursing Club.

Elizabeth accepted Christ at an early age and joined New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church where she remained a faithful member until her death. She didn’t mind saying, “I need to get ready for Church” and tuned in on her computer for Sunday School and Church Services. She was an active member in the New Jerusalem Nurses Guild and Usher Board. At some point she was even in the Church Choir. She truly loved and respected her Pastor and when he called she would ask you to be quiet.

In 1975 she decided to try a new experience and joined the United States Army. This was the beginning of a new career that lasted more than twenty years. She served during Desert Storm and Desert Shield. She received many Military Commendations. They were: The Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal 2nd Award, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army Reserve Achievement Medal 2nd OLC, NCO Development Ribbon w/4, Army Service Ribbon, Southwest Asia Service Medal w/2 Bronze Service Stars, and Marksman Marksmanship Badge Rifle M-16. Betty was a member of the American Legion Post 351, where she served as Secretary. She was dedicated to the Legion and the Commander often would seek her advice and respected opinion.

Elizabeth loved her job because she loved people. She was a member of the Bob Harrison Wellness Center and a faithful volunteer until she lost her sight in one eye. But she didn’t let that stop her. She served as Worthy Matron of Pansy Chapter #203, PHA and was there to give advice as Past Worthy Matron. She was currently a member of Mizpah Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star District 15 Matrons and Patrons Council. The last meeting she was a part of was in January 2021, by Zoom. She was busy the week before she transitioned updating the directory for Pansy Chapter #203 Order of Eastern Star.

She was always doing something to help anyone who asked whether it was preparing income taxes or using her Notary Public seal. Elizabeth loved life and loved what she did. Even while she was sick she was thinking of others.

Betty was a special mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend to those who knew and loved her. She really loved people and was an active servant to the community and an advocate for what she believed was right. Her grandchildren didn’t mind saying, “that’s my Grandma”, whom she loved dearly and spoiled much. She would give them her last, didn’t make any difference what it was. They are all going to miss the gatherings at grandma’s house on major holidays.

Elizabeth leaves to cherish her memories: three devoted children, daughter, Carolyn D. Bartlett who preceded her in death, daughter Loretta Moore Horton, son Zaid (Tonya) Hakim, and her faithful protector “dog” Jack, all of Huntsville, Alabama, seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren of Huntsville, Alabama. Three sisters: Lela (Charlie) Crutcher, Leona (Herbert) Love and Lottie Thomas all of Huntsville, Alabama. One brother Coy L. (Luretta) Lacy of Jacksonville, Arkansas. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. A special friend Hazel Otey who visited and called her every week. A special niece who assisted with her care giving whenever called on, day or night. Betty touched the lives of many with her smile, generosity and love for all until the end, always encouraging and never complaining.