Betty Jean (Ellard) Bennett, 91, of Alderson peacefully passed away on June 29, 2026, in Ronceverte after a long illness. She was born on May 24, 1935, in Alderson to the late Arthur Raymond Ellard and Stella Lee (Stuart) Ellard. Betty lived a life marked by faith, devotion, and quiet strength. She was a Christian woman whose loving and selfless nature touched everyone who knew her, and she will be remembered with deep affection by her family and friends.
Betty was a 1953 graduate of Alderson High School, and she carried the values of her upbringing with her throughout her life. She was proud to have served 35 years at the Federal Prison Camp in Alderson, where she retired after a long and dedicated career. Her work ethic, loyalty, and steady presence earned the respect of those who worked alongside her, and she took great pride in the years she spent serving her community through her employment.
Betty enjoyed a full and active life, and she found happiness in many simple and meaningful pleasures. She loved hunting and horseback riding, and she especially enjoyed cooking for those around her. She also treasured traveling to the beach and Amish Country, where she made memories that she held close to her heart. Betty was faithful in attending church, and she found comfort and strength in her Christian faith. Above all, she loved spending time with friends and family, and her presence made every gathering warmer and more special.
Betty Jean Bennett was one of a kind. She was strong-willed, fearless, and never let anyone push her around. If you knew Betty, you knew exactly where you stood. She didn’t take any nonsense from anyone and wasn’t afraid to stand her ground when she believed she was right. Her fiery spirit, quick wit, and determination made her unforgettable.
Behind that tough exterior was someone who loved deeply, protected the people she cared about, and lived life on her own terms. She faced challenges head-on and taught those around her the importance of being strong, honest, and true to yourself.
Betty leaves behind a legacy of resilience, laughter, and stories that will be shared for generations. Her bold personality and unwavering spirit will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Family was at the center of Betty’s life, and she cherished every moment spent with those she loved. She is survived by Lonnie “Rick” Shires III and his wife Linda of Ronceverte; Artie Lee Shires and his wife Carmela of Alderson; her daughter, Barbarba Jean Bowles of Alderson; and her grandchildren, Chrissy Leigh Bowles and her husband C.B. of Sam Black Church, Keri Crane and her husband Denny of Alderson, Chad Sams and his wife Christine of Lewisburg, Bryan Richard Shires and his wife Tara of Magnolia, TX, Brittany Bradley and her husband Jason of Caldwell, Stacy Yates and her husband Bird of Alderson, and Haylee Wilfong and her husband Briar of Buckhannon. She also leaves behind her beloved great-grandchildren, Ryker Bradley, Sydni Bradley, Willa Crane, Wells Crane, Nadia Shires, Scarlett King, and Drake Yates, all of whom brought her great joy.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her loving husband of 35 years Cecil Bennett, and her brothers Raymond and Richard Ellard.
Those who knew Betty will remember her as a woman of grace, kindness, and unwavering love. Her life was a testament to devotion to family, commitment to work, and faith in God. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Funeral services will be held Friday, July 3, at 2 p.m. at the Lobban Funeral Home Chapel in Alderson, WV, with Pastor Randy Burdette officiating. Burial will follow in the Alderson Cemetery at Alderson WV. Friends may call on Friday, July 3, from 1 to 2 p.m. at Lobban Funeral Home in Alderson, WV.
Family and friends will serve as Pallbearers.
Condolences and memories my be shared with the Bennett family at www.lobbanfh.com
