Betty Haywood Lathan

She was born April 5, 1934, to the late Blair Haywood and Nora Godfrey Haywood.

Betty was born to loving parents and quickly distinguished herself as an exceptional student, graduating as valedictorian of her high school class. Her intelligence, curiosity, and love for learning were evident throughout her life.

Betty married the love of her life, Tom Lathan, with whom she shared many beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, adventure, and countless memories.

Betty was an exceptional bridge player, creative seamstress and knitter, and a remarkable cook. She was renowned for her delicious roasts, creamy mac and cheese, and an array of baked goods, including cookies and cakes that delighted family and friends alike. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and joy, where she shared her culinary masterpieces and created lasting memories. Betty instilled in her children a love of learning and striving to help others. She was always the first to step up as “room mom” for her children’s classes in school and at church.

As avid travelers, Tom and Betty shared a profound passion for exploring the world. Their journeys took her to all fifty states, seven continents and countless countries, where she embraced diverse cultures and made friends around the globe. Her adventurous spirit and zest for life were an inspiration to all who knew her.

Betty is survived by her three loving children, who will forever cherish her memory and the incredible legacy she leaves behind: daughter Laura Simons and husband Kirk of Waynesville; daughter Linda Walden of Charlotte and her sons Charlie and his wife Melissa of San Francisco and Alex and his wife Hannah and their son Banks of Pensacola; son David Lathan and his wife Dana of Weddington and their children Ariel of Knoxville and Joshua of Weddington.

Betty’s kindness and keen sense of humor will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life was a testament to the power of love, learning, and living life to the fullest.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Central United Methodist Church or to the charity of your choice.

A service to celebrate and honor the life of Betty Lathan will be held Saturday, July 20 at 1:00 in the chapel of Central United Methodist Church, 801 S Hayne St, Monroe, NC 28112 with visitation following the service. McEwen Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.