Betty Lea Kratzer

Betty Lea Dean Kratzer, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2024, at her residence in Lenox, Georgia. Born on September 17, 1934, in Braxton County, West Virginia, Betty graced the world with her warmth and kindness for 90 years with 50 plus of those years being lived in Georgia.

Her funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday. December 5, 2024 at Lenox Baptist Church in Lenox, GA with Rev. Raymond Dean officiating.  The family will receive friends before the service from 10:00 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. The interment will be private at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Tifton.

For 21 years, Betty dedicated herself to her work as an inspector for J. P. Stevens Textiles, showcasing her commitment and tireless work ethic. Yet, it was not only her professional life that defined her; it was the vibrant and fulfilling moments spent within her church and family that truly captured her spirit.

A heartfelt member of Lenox Baptist Church, she cherished the time spent with her friends at the Young at Heart Club, eager to embrace the joy and spirit of friendship among her church family. Betty's warmth extended beyond the church doors – she had a passion for attending yard sales and exploring antique stores, always seeking treasures that brought delight and nostalgia into her home. Her culinary talents shone bright in her kitchen, where she found joy in cooking,and baking, filling the lives of her loved ones with delicious memories and treats.  She also loved to sew which brought many hours of pleasure.

Betty's legacy lives on through her devoted family. She is survived by her two daughters and her son-in-law, Lisa Napier and Terri and Todd Wallace, who brought her immense pride and joy. Her life was further enriched by the laughter and love of her eight grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren, who will forever carry the cherished memories of their time with her in their hearts.

Betty was predeceased in death by her beloved husband Wayne D. Kratzer who died in 2005.  His cremains and pictures will be in her casket because she promised him she wasn't going anywhere without him., her sons, Benny Eugene Sickels and  Chester William Sickels, her four brothers and three sisters-in-law Dema and Inez Dean, Harold and Rita Dean, William and June Dean and Bobby Dean along with six sisters and  and five brothers-in-law, Audra and Bill Moss, Cora Dobbins, Pauline and Jasper Dobbins, Irene and Olen Dobbins , Jean and Orval Cogar, and Ruby and Leslie Harris who hold a special place in her family's memories and love. Her life of devotion to family and faith will remain an enduring beacon for all who were privileged to know her.

As we remember Betty Lea Kratzer, let us celebrate the love she poured into everything she did and the indelible mark she left on all our lives. Her spirit will continue to inspire us every day as we carry forward her legacy of kindness, love, and community.

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements.