December 29, 1934 – February 25, 2022

Betty Jo age 87, passed away Friday February 25, 2022 after complications from a fall.

She is preceded in death by her sons, Jerry W. Ray & Joel T. Ray; parents, Graham Blankenship & Emma Black; sister, Jean Martin.

She is survived by Tracy R. Pickett (daughter), Johnathon Pickett, Brody Pickett, Dylan Pickett (grands & great-grand), Michael E. Ray (Son), Andy Ray (Jaymie), Jessica & Hailey (grands & great-grands), Jordan Ray (grand), Becky Golden (sister), Doug Black (brother) (Phyllis), nieces, nephews, and friends. She was a hard-working single mom of three boys and one girl and worked two jobs until she started her career in dietary management. She worked at various facilities throughout her career, she retired at 65 and then continued her dream of graduating high school which she did at the age of 70. Our mother loved her kids with all her heart, but she also loved all the kids in Alabaster when we were growing up. She would fight for anyone doing right and she would also get on our tails if we needed it. The love and mentoring earned her the much-loved name Kool Mama. She stayed involved in the community of Alabaster by taking care of the Still Cemetery in Elliotsville until her passing. She always said, “I am going to tell you what I think, and you can go home and do what you want”. She was much loved by many and will be missed by all.

Services will be held Wednesday, March 2, 2022 in the Charter Funeral Home chapel. A visitation will be held from 12 pm to 2 pm, followed by a service at 2. Betty will be laid to rest in Elliottsville Cemetery.