Betty Longino Dooley, 95, of Eatonton, Georgia passed away on Nov. 25, 2023. She was born on July 24, 1928, in Palmetto, Ga.
Betty was a loving and devoted wife to James, her husband of 71 years.
She was a caring and loving mother to her children, Barry Dooley, Rose and Ed Talbert, and Grace and Stewart Herrington. Her love extended to her grandchildren, Tori and Nick Dooley, Pete and Karla Herrington, and to her great-grandson, Logan Herrington.
Betty’s passion for education began with humble beginnings at West Georgia and at the University of Georgia where she worked in the dining hall to offset the costs of her classes. She began her work career as the Putnam County Extension Agent. This position allowed her to meet the dashing James Dooley who was working in the same building.
They were married in 1952 and began a family seven years later. As a young wife and mother, she completed a Master’s degree at the University of Georgia. Her career in public service continued as the Putnam County Board of Education School and Nutrition Director, Central State Hospital Rehabilitation Services, Dietician at Rock Eagle 4-H Center, and finally as the Putnam County Jail Nutrition Director. Her dedication and hard work made a lasting impression on the community.
Miss Betty, as she was affectionately known, was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Eatonton where she found solace and strength in her faith.
She was a Sunday School Teacher for many years and was a dedicated member of the United Methodist Women. She cherished her time spent with her church family, especially the ladies of UMW. Miss Betty’s warm and welcoming nature made her a beloved member of her church and community.
Miss Betty was passionate about caring for her family, cooking, and sewing. She enjoyed camping with her family and friends and traveling, particularly a trip to Italy, the home of her ancestors. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Eatonton First United Methodist Church at 103 W. Magnolia Street, Eatonton, GA, 31024 or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Miss Betty will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her vivacious laughter was infectious as she read stories making up voices for each character as she told the stories to her grandchildren. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and the community she served.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at 2 pm at the Eatonton First United Methodist Church on Magnolia Street. The family received friends in the old sanctuary beginning at 1 pm prior to the service.
Burial followed immediately after the service at Eatonton Memorial Park. Funeral Services are being directed by Williams Funeral Home of Eatonton.