Betty Jean Jones lived a fulfilling life as a loving mother, sister, wife and friend. She was born March 5, 1945 in Mound Bayou, Bolivar County, Mississippi to parents Vernice Stewart Miller and Steve Miller. She grew up in Shelby, MS and was raised primarily by her cousin Mary Nelson, during difficult financial times. Early on Betty developed her values and strong work ethic, which continued all of her life.
Betty was dedicated to education and had a passion for learning. After graduating from Broad Street High School in Mississippi, Betty attended Mississippi Valley State University and Delta State University in Cleveland, MS. Ultimately, she received her B.S. Education from Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, MS. She worked as an educator and counselor in the Mississippi Delta, where she impacted the lives of students and families daily. She was first in her family to earn her Master’s Degree.
Betty lived life to the fullest by spending time with family and friends, growing in her spirituality and being a mentor and confidant to countless former students. She had an ability to speak truth and reach people in a deep and positive way.
She was predeceased by Vernice Stewart, mother, Steve Miller, father; brothers Grover Miller, Steve Miller, Leroy Stewart, and Eugene Jones, husband.
She is survived by her children, Xavier, C.J., and Sigrid Woods; brothers Robert Ridgley Miller, Richard Miller, Henry Miller; and sisters, Leola Fields and Beatrice Holmes, 6 grandchildren, and a host of extended family which includes former students whom she considered her kids.
A Celebration of Life will be held as a private ceremony with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to remember Betty may make a contribution to the Oblate Sisters of Providence (info@oblatesisters.com) in her memory.
I am so glad I got the opportunity to tell her how much she meant to me and the incredible impact she had on my life as a student at Broad Street High School. We reconnected a few years ago and I’d call from time to time. The last time we spoke was June 2023 and she shared with me that her husband had died. When I was in high school, she was Mrs. Woods. Impeccably dressed, smart and beautiful. I adored her. She was responsible for getting me my first job at the Shelby Public Library. I am now an educator and I have a Betty Woods story that I share with future teachers. Rest in Heaven, Aunt Betty. You made a great difference in the lives of so many.
