Gladys Florence

Mrs. Gladys Elizabeth "Betty" Florence, 85, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, in Gainesville, Georgia.

Born on August 6, 1939, in Atlanta, Georgia, Betty was a trailblazer from an early age. She pursued her education with determination and excellence, earning her undergraduate degree from Georgia State University before continuing on to receive a Master's degree from Emory University. Her commitment to lifelong learning led her to become one of the first women to complete the Executive MBA Program at Emory in 1981-an achievement that reflected both her intellect and pioneering spirit.

Betty began her professional life as a high school math teacher at Sylvan High School. Her career took a transformative turn when she accepted a programming position at The Coca-Cola Company. Through hard work and vision, she rose through the ranks into executive management. Among her many accomplishments was serving as the Coca-Cola comptroller for both the Atlanta and Los Angeles Olympic Games-an extraordinary role that highlighted her leadership and financial acumen.

After taking early retirement from corporate life, Betty embraced a new passion: music. She began violin lessons and soon became a founding member and an integral part of the North Georgia Chamber Symphony. For the last 25 years of her life, this orchestra was not only her primary creative outlet but also a cause close to her heart. She played regularly with the ensemble and generously supported it both financially and administratively, helping to ensure its continued success.

Betty's dedication to community service extended far beyond music. She gave freely of her time and talents to several local organizations including the Dahlonega Women's Club, Leadership of Lumpkin County, and the Lumpkin County Library. Her generosity and commitment left a lasting impact on all who worked alongside her.

She is lovingly remembered by her brother William Marvin Foster (Bill); sister-in-law Evelyn Florence Allen; nieces Paula Foster Fowler, Bonnie Foster, and Cheryl Wyles; nephews Steve Foster, Mark Foster, and Zach Foster; cousins Susan Newsom, Annette Bohler Lovell and David Hammond. She was preceded in death by her husband Virlyn Florence; nephew Ken Foster; niece Tammy Foster Glenn; and sister-in-law Christine Foster. In addition to the family members that are listed, Betty touched the lives of 15 grand nieces and nephews, as well as 12 great-grand nieces and nephews, who loved her dearly.

A woman of remarkable intelligence, generosity, and grace, Betty touched countless lives through both her professional achievements and personal passions. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 28, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 02:00 PM at her home in Dahlonega, Georgia. Friends and Family are invited to attend.