Betty Lunsford Ballew

Betty Lunsford Ballew, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Mission Hospital. Born on May 22, 1942, in Asheville, Betty was a native and lifelong resident of Buncombe County, where she dedicated her life to her family and faith.

Betty was the loving wife of the late Steve Ballew, who passed away on January 19, 2024, after sharing 45 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they created a nurturing and warm home for their family, instilling values of love and togetherness that will endure through generations. She is also preceded in death by her parents, Jimmy Roger Lunsford and Edna Mae Forrester Lunsford; brother, Gary Lunsford; and brother-in-law, David Hensley.

As a devoted mother, Betty is survived by her children: Doug Ballew and his wife Sherry, Jimmy Early and his wife Tina, Jean Laughter and her husband Carl, and Donna Early. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Steven Early, Kevin Early and his wife Cady, Jessica Roselli and her husband Bruno, Dalton Laughter and his wife Everlyn, Nathan Ballew, Kayla Trivette and her husband Charles, and Ashton Early. Betty's heart swelled with pride as she welcomed her great-grandchildren: Lucas, Noah, Harley, Alliyah, Claire, Gabriel, and Rose into her life. She was also survived by her sisters, Sandy Griffin and husband Bill, and Cathy Hensley; and brother, Rod Lunsford and wife Lisa.

Betty was more than just a loving wife and mother; she was also deeply involved in her community. A longtime member of Oteen Baptist Church, her faith guided her throughout her life and was a source of strength and comfort for both her and her family. Her vibrant spirit, kindness, and unwavering support will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In addition to her immediate family, Betty is survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family, who will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy of love, faith, and family will continue to inspire those she left behind. Betty Lunsford Ballew will be deeply missed, yet her spirit endures in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A funeral service to celebrate her life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Oteen Baptist Church, 37 Oteen Church Rd, Asheville, NC 28805, with burial to follow at Ashelawn Gardens of Memory. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until 1:45 PM on Saturday prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to the family, care of Jessica Roselli, 325 Clover Drive, Fletcher, NC 28732.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve the Ballew Family.