Betty Jean Mealor

Betty Jean Mealor, 94, a retired Associate Professor of Business Education from ABAC and UGA, passed away on September 8, 2025, at Legacy Village in Tifton, Georgia. Born on July 21, 1931, in Hiltonia, Georgia, she dedicated her life to both education and her family, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

A memorial celebration of life visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 3:00 to 4:00 P.M. in the chapel of Albritton Funeral Directors, 1020 Tift Avenue N, Tifton, Ga. 31794. Graveside memorial services will be held in the family cemetery at a later date.

Betty graduated from Hiltonia High School before earning her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Georgia. Her passion for teaching and commitment to her students were evident throughout her career at ABAC and UGA, where she inspired countless young minds.

Beyond her professional achievements, Betty was known for her vibrant, feisty and spitfire personality and wide-ranging interests. She loved to go antique and thrift shopping, a hobby that showcased her appreciation for history and craftsmanship. Betty enjoyed gardening and taking great joy in growing flowers and creating beautiful floral designs. Her love for physical activity shone through her youth as she played basketball, earning recognition as the top scorer of her high school team.

Because of her love and faith in Jesus Christ, she started the Lamplighter’s who would sing and dance for the nursing and assisted living homes in the Tifton area.

In addition to her athletic pursuits, Betty was a talented dancer and clogging teacher, introducing many adults and children to the joys of this folk dance. She founded the ABAC Cloggers, fostering a sense of community and creativity among her students. Music was another significant part of her life; she enjoyed singing praise songs and continued to share her love for music even after her Alzheimer's diagnosis. Betty's artistic talents extended to painting and playing the guitar, enriching her life and the lives of those around her. She also enjoyed being a member of the Red Hatter’s.

Betty was cherished by her family, which includes her children, Ken and Kag Mealor and Pam Lovett; her grandchildren, Maria Lovett, Kenneth Mealor, and John Mealor; her brother and sister-in-law, Mickey and Bonnie Lovett; and her sister, Marsha McCabe. She is preceded in death by her father, Ray O. Lovett; her mother, Lollie Bell Forehand Lovett; and her siblings: Bud Lovett, Stan Lovett, Wallace Lovett, and Rose Boyd along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Flowers accepted or donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 2402 Tift Avenue N, Suite 102, Tifton, Ga. 31794 or online at www.alz.org.

Betty Jean Mealor will be remembered not only for her contributions to education but also for her love for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, her loving spirit, creative talents, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of joy, inspiration, and kindness that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements.