Betty Ann Sillavan Harberson was born on October 3, 1929, in Nashville, Arkansas. She died on March 4, 2024, also in Nashville. She was the daughter of the late Willie Frances (Cranford) and James Evans Sillavan. She attended Nashville High School, graduating in 1948.
She was organized and meticulous, qualities which served her well throughout her 44 years as an office manager for Latimer Funeral Home. She retired in 1992.
Though she had heard the message of the gospel throughout her life, she truly accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior in adulthood, as a result of the ministry of Dr. Angel Martinez, who became a beloved friend and encourager. She served as church secretary at First Baptist Church in Nashville for 13 years, and at various points in her life, was also a faithful member of Antioch Baptist Church and Immanuel Baptist Church.
Betty loved working in her yard and growing beautiful flowers. Upon her retirement, she continued to enjoy this hobby, as well keeping up with politics and religion through her avid reading and listening to radio programs.
Betty loved her siblings as well as her nieces and nephews, all of whom she was very proud. She was also like family to her close friends, Joe & Beverly Starr, and their family, with whom she spent holidays and special occasions for over 50 years. In her final years, during her residency at Nashville Nursing and Rehab, her stuffed puppy, Scruffy, was a constant companion.
A graveside funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 6, at 10:30 a.m. at the Ozan Cemetery in Bingen (Murfreesboro highway) under the direction of Latimer Funeral Home. Pastor Brent Thompson will officiate.
Memorials may be made to Cornerstone Church—Operation Christmas Child, 302 S. Pine St., Nashville, AR 71852.
