Betsy Cromer Byars

Not sure if this page is still viewed by the family - yet this came up in an email lately so wanted to comment that her book, Clementine... is now in my safety deposit box to pass on. Was my favorite book of all time, and the words and meaning so subtle that to this day, shows what empathy and understanding she had in relaying such a message in a children's book. She was before her time in addressing such understanding of such feelings, and the meanings behind actions such as Clementine... the sock. This book was at my grandmothers house in Anderson SC while growing up.. the only children's book she had, and when she passed... I claimed it. I believe she personally knew Betsy in some way.

I have only just learned now in Oct 2020 of Betsy Byers passing. As a young boy growing up in England I devoured her books, so full of understanding and wisdom and that special ingredient - Soul.
My condolences to her family and friends, that she lived a long and fruitful life and was beloved by people all over the world that only knew her through her writing I hope is some consolation to you.

Just today, I was interacting with someone about our favorite childhood books. I shared that my favorite was Clementine, by Betsy Byers and I actually had it in my safety deposit box as an heirloom. So off to the internet I went and found of her sad passing here. To her children, I would love to share info as this book my siblings received very long ago, as my family was from Anderson SC and Seneca are. So precious are the memories from your mother that I would have her first signed book to us in my safety deposit box. I wish I could reach out to you today, so I'm doing through this site to share with you how special your mother was to touch so so many for their entire life!

Laurie.... I was saddened to hear of you Mom's passing. I only had the pleasure of meeting her many years ago, and I remember her receiving the Newberry Award when we still attending Clemson. She is an excellent example of a " live very well lived". I hope this message finds you, Michael, and your family all doing well. Take care, God bless....Ben Sullivan

Laurie, I was sorry to see that your beloved mother has died. I remember hearing about how much fun she was when your parents lived in Clemson and were friends with some of my parents' friends. I met her once or twice when we were roommates at Clemson, and she was very kind. I hope you and all your loved ones are keeping well.
Carolyn Bigger Lattimore

On behalf of the Board of Governors of the SC Academy of Authors, I wish to express our sadness at Mrs. Byars' passing and offer our condolences to her family. It was with great respect for her work and appreciation for her joyful outreach to children that she was inducted into the Academy's Literary Hall of Fame in 2016. It was a delight to meet Laurie and Betsy, who accepted the award in their mother's absence, and hear of the special relationship they had with her. It is more than fitting that Mrs. Byars was inducted into the Academy. She is a treasure.

Marybeth Evans, Board of Governors, SC Academy of Authors

I'm so sorry. My sincere sympathy to all the family. We enjoyed knowing Betsy and Ed during their time in Morgantown. She was a lovely person.

As graduate students at WVU, we remember, fondly, the wonderful times we shared with Ed, Betsy and the children at social functions in Morgantown. Our grandchildren cherish her books, that she graciously dedicated to each one. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ed and the family at this difficult time.

"Please accept our heartfelt sympathy for your loss, We are really sorry to hear about this, May God be with you and your family in this difficult time! West Virginia University- Mechanical and Aerospace Department Staff and Faculty

So sorry for your loss. Her books were enjoyed by my child and my students.

Nan and family,
Your mother was always so kind and a wonderful, gifted writer. I cherish childhood memories in Morgantown.

It was my pleasure and privilege to spend a little bit of time with Mrs. Byars in the last few months. She had the most beautiful smile! Thinking of Dr. Byars and the rest of the family in the days ahead and hoping that you have comfort and peace in your grief.

Thank you to Betsy Byars for the wonderful books, which brought great joy and hours of entertainment to my daughter's childhood. Thank you to the entire Byars family for sharing your wife, mother, and grandmother with the rest of the world.

A great lady. Very sorry for your loss.

Laurie and Micheal,
Sorry for your loss. Keeping you in thoughts and prayers. Love, Fran and Gary Richardson

When I was an elementary teacher in Gwinnett County, Ga, Betsy visited our school for an "Author Talk". Betsy was a great speaker who imparted her love of reading to our students. Afterwards, she took the time to walk the hallways, which were full of children's drawings about her books. She loved the display on my classroom door and spent some extra time in my classroom. Her love of books and children was evident to all.

Loved her books

I remember meeting Betsy many years ago. She was charming and friendly and I was star struck. My middle school students loved reading her books. I had to replace many copies due to wear and tear.

May the family be blessed with God's love. I'm sorry for your loss. She wrote many wonderful books.

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this sad time.

NaN and family. So sorry for your loss. Keep her alive in your heart with your wonderful memories. God Bless. Libby Bell Davis.

Laurie, Michael and family, sending our deepest sympathy and love on the loss of Laurie's wonderful mother. Please know that we hold you close in our hearts. Love, Libby and Rhett

Thank you for sharing her wonderful story with us. I know she was the joy of your lives and a blessing to you all.