Betty Roann Celani

Betty Roann Celani, 83, passed away on March 3, 2025. A beloved mother, wife, sister, and friend, she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Betty was born on December 13, 1941, in Atmore, Alabama. The oldest child in a military family, she spent her early years living on Army posts across the U.S. and in Germany. Betty took her responsibilities as the eldest child seriously, serving as a role model, caretaker, confidante, and friend to her four younger siblings. This relationship remained constant throughout her life.
In El Paso, Texas, Betty met and married Albert (Al ) Celani, an officer in the U.S. Army. Together they had a son and daughter. Betty loved being a mother. Though the military required a nomadic lifestyle, Betty worked tirelessly to create a comfortable home for
her family at each new Army installation. Betty attended Texas Western College (now The University of Texas at El Paso),
graduating with a degree in Education. Betty loved teaching, especially kindergarten and first grade, and in El Paso, she taught at several schools, including Dowell, Radford, and Eastpoint. Throughout her teaching career, she was known for her hard work, dedication, and passion for education, especially in reading instruction. Betty prided herself on preparing students for their continued academic success.
After retirement, Betty moved with Al to Ocala, Florida. During these years, she enjoyed painting, line dancing, going on cruises, taking her grandchild and family to Disney World, and caring for her cherished friends.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents James and Josephine Ward, brother James Ward, Jr., husband Albert Celani, and daughter Michelle Leigh Celani.
Betty Celani is survived by her son Butch Celani (Kristen), grandchild Gabi, and brother Eddie Ward (Jayne), sisters Dorothy Ward (Connie) and Sandy Blanco (Raul). Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.
A private funeral service will be held for family in El Paso, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Hosparus Health Louisville.