Betty Anne Crews

Betty Anne Crews, 93, of Jonesboro, passed away on December 11, 2023 at the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House. Born on July 19th, 1930, in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Betty was the daughter of William H. and Olga Anne Berry. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and left behind a legacy of love, compassion, and selflessness.

Betty’s early years were marked by the rich tapestry of Baptist ministries as her parents served in Brazil. Her journey led her to Arkansas for college at Ouachita Baptist University, where she embarked on a path that would define her purpose and impact countless lives.

A retired teacher from the South Mississippi County School District, Betty dedicated herself to her craft, first as a home economics instructor and then as a career orientation educator. After an initial retirement, she was asked to work with blind students. She received training in Little Rock and taught several students over a decade. Her passion for teaching was unparalleled, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of her students. Betty's commitment to making a difference in the lives of those she taught was truly commendable.

Betty had a creative spirit that found expression in painting, drawing, and sewing. Her artistic talents added color to the world around her, reflecting the beauty she saw in life. She also had great concern for the well-being of others, which was reflected in many selfless acts of kindness toward family, friends, and often simply people in need.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Betty found joy in her roles as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was married to Donald Crews for 57 years until his passing, and together they built a life filled with love and shared experiences. Betty is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and three brothers, Edward, Tom, and Bailey Berry.

Betty is survived by her loving children, Erick Crews of Jonesboro, and Gretchen Engel and husband Richard of Toano, Virginia. She leaves behind a cherished legacy through her five grandchildren: Joe and wife Kayla Engel, David and wife Stacey Engel, April and husband Jared Wilson, Alicia and husband Mike Smith, and Jackie Laden. Betty is also survived by 13 great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, and a lifetime of friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to be made to the Arkansas School of the Blind or the Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House.

All services will be private.