of North Little Rock, AR
October 16, 1931 - March 9, 2026
The world became a little less bright, and heaven a lot more organized, with the passing of Betty Jo Graddy on March 9, 2026. Known affectionately to all who loved her simply as ''Auntie,'' she was a woman of fierce devotion and boundless maternal love. Betty Jo lived a life dedicated to the greater good of her family, her students, her church, and her community.
A Foundation of Faith and Family
Born on October 16, 1931, in Van Buren County, Arkansas, Betty Jo was the daughter of James and Vernie Gifford. As one of five siblings, she naturally stepped into the role of ''leader of the pack.'' Her childhood in rural Arkansas instilled in her a lifelong mission: the belief that working together for the common good was the highest calling.
Above all, Betty Jo loved the Lord. She lived according to God's Word in every facet of her life, from the stewardship of her finances to the unwavering devotion she showed her family. Her faith was not just a belief, but the very compass that guided her daily walk.
She is preceded in death by her beloved parents; her siblings, James, Jerry, Nellie, and Fran; and the love of her life, her husband Connie Graddy.
A Life of Adventure and Education
Betty Jo and Connie's marriage was a partnership of true companionship. Following Connie's career in the poultry industry, the pair embarked on adventures across the country, including a memorable chapter in Idaho, before eventually rooting themselves in Russellville, Arkansas.
In Russellville, Betty Jo found her second calling in the classroom. As an elementary school teacher for over 20 years, she didn't just teach lessons; she nurtured souls. She loved her school children as her own, a fact evidenced by the "treasures" that filled her home; Christmas gifts and handmade tokens from her students that she cherished and kept for all of these years.
A Heart for Nature and Nurture
When she wasn't in the classroom, Betty Jo could be found in her garden or watching the birds. She possessed a deep well of knowledge on both subjects and shared that endless knowledge with anyone willing to listen. Whether it was the secret to a blooming flower or identifying a visitor at the birdfeeder, "Auntie" was a lifelong teacher of the natural world.
While she was an extraordinarily devoted mother to her son, Joe B. Graddy, her "mothering" did not stop at her own front door. She was a mother figure to everyone she loved. To know Auntie was to be looked after, checked on, and profoundly loved.
Her Legacy
Betty Jo leaves behind a legacy of education, grace, and grit. She is survived by her son, Joe B. Graddy; her niece and dedicated caretaker, Lee Goff; and a host of many loving family members and friends who were blessed by her wisdom and kindness.
A visitation will be held at Roller-Owens Funeral Home in North Little Rock on Friday, March 13, at 10:00 a.m., with burial to follow at 12:30 p.m. at Colony Cemetery in Bee Branch.
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13 Condolence(s)
Ramona Woods
Friday, March 13, 2026
I loved Betty, Connie and Joe so very much. We were neighbors when they moved to Russellville and attended church together. After Connie passed, Betty and Joe lived with my family for a few months while her new house was being built. Nellie, Fran and Lee were names I heard Betty lovingly mention often. She was indeed a bright light in this world.
Pam Christie
Friday, March 13, 2026
I knew Ms. Betty through a friend and a family member. Her story and dedication to her family is grace in action. Rest in peace, God bless her legacy of faith.
Becky Bell
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Mrs. Betty was such a wonderful lady and example of strength. She was a true servant and a great conversationalist. I loved visiting with her. An example of her caring spirit is that she always asked after my family and would want reports the next time we saw one another. She’ll be greatly missed.
Tommy Saugey
Thursday, March 12, 2026
We loved and admired Betty. The was a light and an example of selfless giving and a servant attitude. I was blessed to know her and Joe for many years. Our loss is Heaven's gain. Rest in peace my dear friend!
Jacque Bain
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Betty has been our next door neighbor for over 30 years. Conversations with her were always full of Biblical references and life experiences! My husband, David, before he passed, would sit with Joe on occasion so Betty could have a bit of time to run errands or whatever she needed. She was something very unique and special! She is missed already!!!
William LAMB
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Mrs. Betty was a wonderful example for all of us who knew her. Her care of John let us all know her devotion to family and the Lord Jesus
Alice Mason
Thursday, March 12, 2026
I am sorry to hear of the passing of your mother's last sister. It is difficult to lose the last of a generation and someone who knows your family history, and who you have known and loved your entire life. Rena, Sharon, Patricia, and all of your "kids", I am praying for you, for your Aunt Betty's entire family, especially for Joe this week. Love you. ❤️ 🙏
Toni Gifford
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
One of the most giving women I ever knew. Always putting others before herself. Loved her much, she will be missed!
Casey Gifford
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Aunt Betty was a loving and gracious woman. I have many childhood memories of her. We always had a wonderful dinner when we would get to go to visit her, Aunt Fran, Aunt Nellie, Uncle Jerry and My Grandpa Jim Gifford. Aunt Betty, although we didn’t get to see her much the last few years always sent us a Christmas card. First thing she always asked me was how my family was doing Because that was important to her. I wish we could’ve been around more because other than my great aunts and uncles, I do not know other than Joe any of their children or grandchildren. I’ve only met them unfortunately at funerals For only a moment. She was the last of the elders for me on the Gifford side.
Thanks for your kindness and warmth over the years, we will miss you.
Casey & Michelle, Maddy, Cadie, Bentley Gifford
Kelli Stephen
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Auntie Betty was always loving to me. I know my Pops & rest of her siblings are loving her being 'Home' in heaven but it's left a whole here for many. Our tears are truly joy & ache all in one cause we will miss her genuine smiles, laugh, patting my hand & cheek, telling me how good I did with my boys. She always knew the right things to do or say at just the right time. I love ya Auntie Betty.
Reba Gifford Rooney
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Sorry to hear about Betty she is Cody and Casey Gifford great aunt sending prayers
John & Valerie Phillips
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
We were saddened to learn of the passing of Betty last night. Our prayers are with Joe and the rest of the family that God will give you the comfort and peace that you need at such a difficult time. Betty was a faithful Christian servant, and we know that she is now in the hands of her Lord. Please let us know if there’s anything more that we can do for you!
Phillip Reid
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
More memories than I could ever list. I will miss my Aunt Betty till I see her again.