Bettye Jo Branson Townsend, 88, of Kingston, TN, and formally of Hollywood, FL, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025. She was born Dec 21,1936 in Greenback, TN. She was the beloved daughter of Amie Selvage Branson and Thomas Branson, both of whom, preceded her in death. She is also preceded in death by her devoted husband, Hugh L. Townsend, and her cherished son, Avery Townsend.
Bettye Jo is lovingly remembered by her daughter and son-in-law, Coleda and Robert Gearhart and her granddaughter, Amy Gearhart Ferraro and son-in-law Christopher Ferraro and grandson, Lt. Col Robert Gearhart. She was a proud Grand-Mema to Lily Elizabeth Ferrao and Elly Grace Ferraro of Westbrook, CT.
Bettye loved East Tennessee but moved to South Florida in 1970, with her family, for her husband’s career. During her time in Florida, she attended Barry University and graduated with a master’s degree. She also attended the National Judicial College. She was Director of the 17th District Court of Broward County in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. She moved back to TN when she retired.
Bettye Jo was forever young. Her family called her “Firecracker Mema”. She loved to craft, sew, quilt, and paint in acrylic and watercolor. A challenge was never an obstacle for her. In fact, that is what she loved the most.
Bettye will be missed by her family, friends and long term caregiver
Graveside service 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Loudon County Memorial Gardens. Kyker Funeral Home of Kingston is serving the Townsend Family.