Betty Keaton

Betty Jean Justice Keaton, 89, of Hudson died peacefully Friday, January 15, 2021, at Brookdale Lenoir after a period of declining health. She was born April 24, 1931 in Caldwell County. She is the daughter of the late Ira Lee Justice and Maude Sullivan Justice. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ross Isaac Keaton and all her siblings: Harold Justice, Jim Justice, Bill Justice, Mary LeFever, Helen Hatley, Ruth Phillips and infant sister, Kathryn Justice. Betty was known for her dedication to family, her selflessness, energy, spunk, creative mind and unwavering work ethic and faith. In the 1950’s she sewed for Blue Bell; in the 1960’s Betty worked from home – designing and creating wardrobes for select clients while managing her household; in the 1970’s and 80’s and beyond she worked at Kincaid Furniture Company in accounting where the analytical side of her brain flourished. In retirement when many allow time for themselves, Betty worked tirelessly to give to others. She continued to garden, putting food back for winter; baking, giving bread regularly to those she loved; sewing quilts to provide warmth to those in need internationally; caring for grandchildren and ultimately the full-time caregiver for her beloved Ross. She was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Hudson, where she served in Fellowship, on the Altar Guild and as a Sunday School Teacher. Betty is survived by a son, Mitchell Keaton and partner Deb Abernethy of Hickory, NC; a daughter, Kelly Keaton Rucker and husband Peter Rucker of Banner Elk, NC; and three grandchildren: Ashley Keaton Cox and partner Wayne Gainey of Sumter, SC; Jordan Marie Burkhart and husband Christopher Burkhart of Banner Elk; and Pierson Rucker of Banner Elk. She is also survived by three great-grandchildren: Kendra Marksberry and husband Michael; Callie Marie Cox; and Shelby Lee Cox; six great-great-grandchildren: Michael Lee Marksberry, Maddox Marksberry, Memphis Marksberry, Alyssa Dawn Ahner, Gryphon Carricker and Kerrington Evans and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service with the Rite of Christian Burial will be celebrated for the family at St. John’s Lutheran Church officiated by Pastor Dan Duke. Betty’s family extends a tremendous thanks to the staff of Brookdale Senior Living, where Betty resided for the last 20 months. Memorials may be given to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 352 Central Street, Hudson, NC 28638.