Betty Mclaurin

Betty Louise McLaurin passed away October 11, 2023. Betty was born October 11, 1930 in
Burkburnett, Texas to Samuel Elliot Kellow and Zilpha Whiteside Kellow. She is survived by her
husband of 66 years, Donald K. McLaurin, three daughters, Janice (Larry) McAlpine, Gail
McLaurin, Donna Kay McLaurin, and four grandchildren, Heather McAlpine, Melissa (Joe York)
McAlpine, Sam Goldstein, and Maggie Miller. She was preceded in death by her parents, and two
siblings, John Kellow and Joanne Kellow Jesse.
After graduating high school in Kentucky, she attended Baylor University where she received her
degree in elementary education. From there she taught school in Mount Vernon, IL, Frankfurt,
Germany and Savannah, GA. Once retired from teaching, she worked with the Chatham County
Voter’s Registration office. She was a member of the Military Officer’s Lady’s Auxiliary, where
she served as treasurer.
While teaching in Germany, she met her future husband, Donald McLaurin, who was serving on
active duty with the U.S. Army Engineers. After returning to the states, they were married, and
made their home in Savannah, GA.
For 66 years, Betty was an active member of the Independent Presbyterian Church. She was a
kindergarten and first grade teacher for the church school, a Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible
School teacher, and Women’s Circle and Prayer Group member. Betty loved teaching children to
read, and her patience and compassion are still remembered by her students today.
Betty McLaurin was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. Her faith in God was unshakable,
and she lived her life by example. She was humble and quiet, but had a way of making people feel
loved and comfortable. She was kindness, and the world was a better place with her in it.
Heartfelt thanks to Felisha, Kenya, and Valerie, Hospice Savannah, and everyone at Spanish Oaks
for their loving care and kindness.
A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, October 16, 2023 at The Independent
Presbyterian Church of Savannah, 207 Bull St, Savannah, GA 31401.
Graveside services will be held 1:00 P.M. Monday, October 23, 2023 at Scotch Cemetery, South
Carolina 3268 US 1, Bethune, SC 29009.
Please share your thoughts about Mrs. McLaurin and her life at www.gamblefuneralservices.com