Betty Lynn Hollifield, 81

Betty Lynn Moore Hollifield passed away peacefully Friday evening, April 23rd, 2021, surrounded by her family.  She was born September 12, 1939 in Spartanburg, SC to Calvin and Emily Mason Moore.  Betty Lynn grew up on a peach farm in Inman, SC and learned the importance of a strong work ethic at an early age.  At the age of six, she was not only working with peaches but was also taking piano lessons and began formal training from Converse College professors before age ten.  It was no surprise that she ended up at Converse School of Music where she completed a degree in Music Education and Performance.  Upon graduation, her first job was as band director at Cool Springs High School and music education at the feeder schools.    

Music was the love of her life until she met young Leonard Hollifield.  That chance meeting led to a 58 year-long marriage that began only 4 months later.  Together Betty Lynn and Leonard raised two children who they adopted as infants.  Music continued to be a strong force in her life, but family came first.  Keeping her house and yard tidy, meals cooked and her children active were top priority, but she continued to teach students piano privately and assist band and choral directors at East Rutherford High School.  Betty Lynn also worked as choir director and accompanist at various churches the family attended.  For numerous years, she taught piano until her health would no longer allow.

Though she suffered from debilitating health issues for years, the four children who called her “Grammy” brought about a renewed interest and fervor for life.  Her stoic personality with a fiery redhead temper turned into a sweet and soft countenance that beamed with nothing but love at the sight or mention of them.  Betty Lynn enjoyed watching all her grandchildren swim in her pool, taking them to the beach in Hilton Head, the annual trip searching for pumpkins and apples and picnicking in the mountains.  

She is survived by her husband, Leonard Ray Hollifield; daughter, Emily Hollifield Hunter (Marc) of Burlington, NC; son, Jonathan (Dede) of Bostic.  Her grandchildren are Jordan and Lauren Hunter and Meredith and Aiden Hollifield.  She is also survived by many relatives and special friends.

A celebration of her life will take place on the grounds of Sunshine Church; 367 DePriest Road; Bostic, NC Wednesday, April 28th at 5 pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to either of Betty Lynn’s favorite charities - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital; 501 St. Jude Place; Memphis, TN 38105 or Shriners Hospital for Children; 950 West Faris Road; Greenville, SC  29605.

Washburn & Dorsey Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences @www.washburndorsey.com.