Betty Lou (Larry) Pettigrew

Sister Betty L. Pettigrew was born on September 18, 1944, in Tchula, Mississippi, to the late John Pepper and Luvenia Larry.  She confessed her hope in Christ at an early age and joined St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church.  She later united with Fresh Fire Ministry, where she faithfully served as an usher, Sunday school teacher, and a beloved Mother of the Church.

Betty worked as a Head Start teacher and a nurse’s assistant during her early years.  She was known for her compassionate spirit, dedication to serving others, and unwavering faith in God.

She was united in holy matrimony to the late Elder Willie Curtis Pettigrew, and together they shared a life rooted in faith, love and family.

On May 31, 2026, Betty peacefully departed this life at Pemiscot Memorial Hospital in Hayti, Missouri, at the age of 81.

She was preceded in death by her husband, both parents, one daughter, Doris Elijah, three brothers, and one sister.

She leaves to cherish her memory and mourn her passing her loving children: Rita J. Flowers of Louisville, Kentucky; Reba Spicer of Gosnell, Arkansas; Alveta Larry of Caruthersville, Missouri; and Donna (David) Brown of Atlanta, Georgia.

She also leaves behind her siblings: two sisters, Donna (Tony) Lewis of Caruthersville, Missouri, and Luizea Purdue of Chicago, Illinois; and two brothers, Calvin Larry of Caruthersville, Missouri, and Moses (Rae) Larry of Chicago, Illinois.

She also leaves to cherish her memory three special sisters: Velma Mead, Artis Bryant and Lillie Wilbourn.

She leaves to cherish her memory one beloved aunt, Nettie McBride; a special niece and devoted caregiver, Burnet Kindred; 13 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, her adopted children, Johnnie Williams and Sandra Langford; her beloved godchildren Taquilla (Frederick) Moore, and Dr. Ashanti Odom; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, church family and dear friends.

Betty’s life was a testament of faith, service, strength, and love.  Her kindness, wisdom, and devotion to God and family touched countless lives.  Though she has departed from this earthly life, her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”   Matthew 25:23

Funeral services will be Saturday, June 6 at 2:00 at the Divine Holiness Church with Pastor Willie Joe Jones officiating.  Interment will follow in Morgan Ridge Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Saturday morning from 10:00 - 11:00 in the H.S. Smith Chapel.

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