LIVELY—Betty Jean “Betsy” Holm Milstead, 85, of Lively passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2019, at her home.
She was born on November 28, 1933, in Lakeland, Fla., the daughter of the late Frank and Clara Holm. She married the love of her life, Reverend Carlton Milstead on May 18, 1956. They were married for 63 years.
Betsy was a loving devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Her faith and family were her deepest passions and she was always sharing positive and inspirational thoughts to lift others up.
After graduating from Lakeland High School, she attended Carson Newman College where she met her future husband Carlton Milstead. After marrying, their pastorates included Arvonia Baptist Church, Buckingham Baptist Church, Bruington Baptist Church and finally the church fields of Lebanon, Norwood and Providence Baptist churches in Lancaster County.
In 2019 they celebrated their 50th anniversary at this church field. Their love for their church families and the love received in return has always been greatly appreciated.
Betsy was an English teacher in the King William and Lancaster school systems for many years and greatly enjoyed her students and participating in school activities. Students continue to share about the love and care she exhibited to them while teaching. She enjoyed quiet times at home and with her grandchildren sharing her talents of painting and artwork.
Betsy is survived by her husband, Carlton; sons, David of Richmond, Michael of Fredericksburg and John and wife, Jennifer, of Lakeland, Fla.; granddaughters, Charity, Bethany, Grace and Leah; great-grandchildren, Angel, Brent, Christopher and Diamond; niece, Cindy Rogers; and nephew, Guerry Holm.
Betsy was preceded in death by her brother, Guerry Holm.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 25, at Lebanon Baptist Church, Alfonso. Interment followed the service in the church cemetery. Family received friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Lebanon Baptist Church, 1712 Lara Road, Lancaster, VA 22503.
Currie Funeral Home LLC of Kilmarnock handled the arrangements.
