Bettie Craine Howe

Bettie Craine Howe passed away September 28, 2025, at Martha Franks Retirement Community.

Bettie was the wife of Claude H. Howe for 56 years. Bettie was born May 13, 1929, in Laurens, South Carolina. Her parents were Rev. Ray Craine and Nellie Hinton Craine. She attended Laurens County Schools and was a Ford high school graduate. She also attended college in Mississippi. Bettie was of the Baptist faith and was a member of several Baptist churches in South Carolina where she enjoyed traditional church services. 

As the spouse of a coach and educator, she supported Claude through all of the experiences of sports and school business. She worked at both Thornwell kindergarten and District 56 schools in several capacities. For many years, she was an avid walker. In her later years, she enjoyed solving crossword puzzles and regular puzzles. She enjoyed history and sports. After Claude’s death, Bettie cherished her time with her Martha Franks family. She always strived to be a positive, upbeat person.

She is survived by her son, Chip (Jenks), together with grandsons, Mac Howe, and Hamilton Howe (Katie), granddaughters, Melissa Cartin (Bob) and Melody Bedenbaugh (Garrett). She was blessed to live long enough to enjoy her great grandchildren, Finn Bedenbaugh, Henry Cartin, Lillian Bedenbaugh, Annie Cartin and Hudson Bednbaugh.

As the last surviving member of her family, she was predeceased by her sister, Mildred and her brothers, Rev. James Craine and Francis Marion Craine. Bettie was also predeceased by her son, Jeff.

The family will have a private graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a Memorial to Martha Franks Retirement Community, 1 Martha Franks Drive, Laurens, SC 29360.

Condolences may be expressed to the family online by visiting www.grayfuneralhome.com.

Gray Funeral Home of Clinton is assisting the Howe family with services.