Betty Ann Godowns

Betty Ann Gilmore Godowns, 93, peacefully entered into her eternity on January 23, 2024, at Washington County Extended Care in Sandersville. A graveside service officiated by Rev. Wayne Turpin will be held to honor Betty's life at 11:00AM on January 25, 2024 at Ways Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will greet friends after the service.

Born on May 31, 1930, to the late Anna Reid Walker Gilmore and the late Robert Wiley Gilmore, Betty grew up in the charming town of Sandersville and graduated from Sandersville High School. After completing a cosmetology course, she moved to Thomson in 1951 and began her career as a hair stylist at Thomson Beauty Salon.

It was during a lively dance where Betty discovered her love for dancing the jitterbug and it was there that she met the love of her life. Marrying in 1959, they made their home in Wrens. She and Frank were inseparable and truly enjoyed each other’s companionship for life—Betty was his life-long “sidekick”.

Upon settling in Wrens, Betty became an active member of Ways Baptist Church. She faithfully served her Lord and Savior as the church hostess throughout the years. At the time of her passing, Betty was the oldest member of the congregation, having dedicated herself to embodying Christian values through acts of kindness and service.

While Betty did not have any children of her own, she had a heart full of love for others and possessed an unwavering desire to help those in need. For over 30 years, she volunteered with the American Cancer Society, providing transportation to patients from Jefferson County for their medical appointments. Betty's goal was simple yet profound: to allow God's love for humanity to radiate through her actions.

In her free time, Betty found joy in gardening and preserving its bountiful harvest by canning produce. She took pleasure in sharing the fruits (quite literally) of her labor with friends and neighbors who always appreciated her generosity. Above all else, Betty cherished her family wholeheartedly.

Beyond her beloved husband, Franklin Willis Godowns, Betty was also preceded in death by her parents, Anna Reid Walker Gilmore and Robert Wiley Gilmore. She also mourned the loss of all her siblings: R.W. Gilmore Jr., John B. Gilmore, W.W. “Pop” Gilmore, Mae Carolyn Gilmore, Lillie Tanner, and Martha Eskew.

Betty leaves behind a loving legacy cherished by her surviving family and friends. Her nieces and nephews include Donna G. Turner (Paul) of Tennille, Pam Frederick of Sandersville, Lisa Taylor (Michael) of Sandersville, Fran Todd (Steve) of Guyton, Mike Gilmore (Jackie) of California, and Bobby Gilmore of Australia. Additionally, Betty will be fondly remembered by her great nieces and nephews: Kathryn Durden (Brandon), Ashely Turner (Glisa), Anna Turner (John Duncan), and J.T. Frederick (Rebecca); along with countless extended family members, church family members, and dear friends. 

Betty will forever be remembered for her selflessness and unwavering dedication to helping others. Her genuine concern for people's well-being and willingness to go above and beyond showed the depth of her character. Betty's warm smile welcomed strangers as on every journey she embarked upon. Her green thumb brought life to her garden that provided sustenance for those around her. And most importantly, she showered family with immeasurable love throughout the years.  In this time of mourning, as we remember Betty's incredible life, let us find solace and comfort in the knowledge that her love and kindness will forever live on in our memories.