Betty Ann Willis

Betty Ann Yancey Willis, a beloved mother, grandmother and great‑grandmother, passed away on August 21, 2026 at the age of 91. Born in Atlanta, Georgia on January 31, 1935, she spent most of her life in Georgia and was a proud and long‑time resident of Thomasville and member of First Baptist Church.

Affectionately known as MomMom by her grandchildren, Betty was a faithful Christian who found joy in her family and her deep faith. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Education from the University of Georgia and dedicated decades of her life to teaching within the Thomas County School System. When Brookwood School opened in 1970, she became one of its first teachers, inspiring countless fifth grade students with her passion for learning.

Outside the classroom, Betty expressed herself through music, often singing hymns or playing the piano. She proudly cheered for her Georgia Bulldogs whenever she could. Her adventurous spirit carried her across the world, from 25 years of family trips to Green Turtle Cay in the Bahamas, where she formed friendships as lasting and meaningful as the place itself, to a solo cultural journey in Merida, Mexico. She explored Europe, Costa Rica, Belize, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands, and traveled to Israel and Turkey in pursuit of biblical understanding. Her baptism in the Jordan River was her second, and she was so excited for this deeply meaningful moment.

Betty viewed the world with both a creative eye and a compassionate heart. A talented artist, she loved painting and drawing, but her greatest masterpiece was the kindness she showed to every animal she encountered. She had an unwavering love for animals, especially cats, and never hesitated to help animals in need. Whether creating something beautiful or carefully labeling every detail of her home with her trademark precision, Betty's thoughtfulness and unique gifts left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Betty is survived by her son William Maurice Willis Sr (Amy) and her daughter Julie Shuttlesworth (Randy). She is also survived by her grandchildren: Marshall Britt Shuttlesworth, William Maurice Willis Jr (Anna), Baylee Shuttlesworth McDaniel (Avery) and Haley Willis (fiancé Chan Johnson). She leaves behind great‑granddaughters Elizabeth (Liza) Ann Willis and Audrey Price Willis.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations honoring Betty Ann Willis to Brookwood School or Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Ophthalmology Research in honor of clinicians Dr. Syril Dorairaj and Dr. Darby Miller. Please call 1-855-852-8129 to talk with a team member who can facilitate a secure gift transfer over the telephone.

Online: Please visit https://give.mayoclinic.org/mc and complete the online form. Select "Dedicate my Donation and enter Name", select "designation listed or other to enter designation" for support, and dedicate the gift "In Memory"

Mail: Checks can be written directly to Mayo Clinic and sent to 200 First Street SW Rochester, MN 55905. In the memo please write "In memory of Betty Ann Willis".

A private graveside service for family was held. A Celebration of Life will take place at the Willis Family Farm in the fall.

Betty Ann was preceded in death by her husband Kevin Maurice Willis, her father William Henry Yancey, her mother Audrey Britt Yancey and her brother Britt Yancey.