Greenville Community Remembers Betty Sheftall

News Summary

The Greenville community is mourning the loss of Betty Sheftall, a beloved matriarch and leader, who passed away at her home on December 22, 2024. Known for her kindness and commitment to community service, Betty’s legacy includes roles in various volunteer organizations and a deep love for her family. A celebration of her remarkable life is scheduled for January 12, 2025, at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, where friends and family are invited to share memories and reflections.

Greenville, South Carolina Mourns the Loss of Beloved Community Leader Betty Sheftall

On December 22, 2024, the vibrant city of Greenville bid farewell to a cherished matriarch and community leader, Betty Sheftall, who passed away peacefully at her home. Known for her kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her community, Betty’s legacy will continue to echo throughout the lives she touched.

Born in Spartanburg, South Carolina, on October 12, 1936, Betty was the beloved daughter of Walter Wylie Ezell and Dorothy Burnett Ezell Betsill. She grew up in a loving family and was known for her vibrant spirit. It was at a summer swimming pool in 1953 where she first crossed paths with her high school sweetheart, Stanley Waring Sheftall, DDS. The two would soon become inseparable.

A Life Filled with Love and Achievement

Betty graduated from Gaffney High School in 1954, where she was crowned Miss Gaffney during her senior year. With her smile lighting up the room, she went on to represent South Carolina in the Carolina’s Carousel parade, even driving away with a first-place prize that earned her the key to the city from the Mayor of Charlotte.

In a whirlwind of romance, Betty and Stanley eloped in 1955, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey together. Shortly after their marriage, Stanley enlisted in the United States Army, while Betty pursued her academic dreams at Furman University. Her hard work paid off when she graduated in 1959 with dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemistry and Biology, graduating with high honors.

Her career began as a Chemical Lab Technician at Cryovac in Simpsonville but soon took a turn as the family moved to Richmond, Virginia. There, she embraced her talent for teaching as she became a guidance counselor and teacher at Brookland Junior High School, inspiring the next generation.

Community Service and Leadership

Once Stanley concluded his dental education, the family returned to Greenville, where they built a life together. Betty became a proud homemaker and devoted mother while actively volunteering in her community. From her roles as President of the Carolinian Debutante Club in 1984 and the Greenville County Dental Auxiliary in 1997, to leading the Wild Wood Garden Club on two occasions, Betty’s impact was unmistakable.

Her commitment to giving back didn’t stop there. Betty volunteered at Shiner’s Hospital, Meals on Wheels, and even contributed her time to Augusta Circle Elementary School. She taught Girls Auxiliary (GA’s) and Sunday school at First Baptist Church, where she and Stanley had been active members since 1954, celebrating many life milestones together.

Enduring Love and Family Connections

After losing Stanley in 2018, Betty found a new sense of community and belonging at St. Paul’s Anglican Church starting in 2019, where she worshipped until her passing. Betty was not only a matriarch but a treasured friend and confidante to many, leaving behind a vast network of loving connections.

Her legacy lives on through her children, Stanley Waring Sheftall, Jr., DMD, and Pamela Sheftall Matthews, along with her grandchildren, Virginia Sheftall Riley, Samuel Sheridan Matthews III, and Elizabeth Sheftall Carver. Betty also took immense pride in her great-grandchildren, who brought joy and laughter into her life.

A Celebration of Life

In remembrance of a remarkable life, a celebration of life ceremony will be held on January 12, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Greenville. Family and friends are invited to gather immediately afterward at the home of her daughter for a time of reflection and shared memories. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Betty’s memory can make donations to St. Paul’s Anglican Church.

Betty Sheftall’s warmth and unwavering spirit will long be remembered by all who knew and loved her. As the community mourns, they also celebrate a life fully lived, rich with love, laughter, and a genuine passion for helping others. Share your favorite memories and condolences with the family at www.thomasmacfee.com.