Betty Rowland Probasco

Betty Rowland Probasco, champion golfer and champion for the FCA, earned her final victory into glory on June 30, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband Scotty Probasco, who affectionately nicknamed her "Spark" for her competitive fire and vibrant spirit. Betty was born on October 18, 1929 in Irvine, Kentucky to Lola and "Doc " Rowland, who preceded her in death, as well as her brother Murray Lee "Junie" Rowland, and "Son"-in-law, Greg Brown.
During her youth in Lexington, Kentucky, she discovered a talent and passion for golf. Her focus on good health and her strong discipline and drive allowed Betty to play her beloved game well into her late 80s.
She graduated from Rollins College, where she was the NCAA Champion in 1950. She was honored by her selection to the Curtis Cup team in 1956, and she was further honored to lead the team to a 1982 win as non-playing Captain. She still holds a record 8 Tennessee State Amateur titles along with 4 Kentucky State Amateur titles. She holds the unique distinction of winning championships in 5 different decades by the age of 51. Betty won the Women's Southern Amateur and recently was delighted to have the tournament trophy named for her.
Her Senior credits include winning the Women's Western in 1991, the State Women's in 1980 and Palmetto Dunes in 1981. She served the golf community in a number of notable capacities: member of the USGA Women's Committee for over 10 years, President of the Women's Tennessee Golf Association, and President of the Women's Southern Golf Association.
An unabashed believer in Jesus Christ, Betty was a devoted member of the National Fellowship of Christian Athletes Board and a faithful and active member of First Presbyterian Church for over 70 years. Another highlight was having the local FCA fundraising golf tournament named in her honor. Among her myriad other amazing skills, she was also a licensed instrument pilot and trap and clay shot champion.
She is survived by her 4 close children: Scott III (Alexis) Probasco, Zane Brown, Ellen (Chris) Moore, and Ben (Susan) Probasco. She has 12 wonderful grandchildren: Greg Brown, Ben Brown (Lynn), Kaki Jenkins (Jay), Sarah Zane Gomoll (Andrew), Timothy Moore (Jilli), Christopher Moore (Lindsey), Laura Scorey (Steve), William Probasco (Laura), Walker Probasco (Emily), Philip Probasco, Cartter Probasco, and Kate Siragusa (Nick).
She is also survived by her 13 lively great grandchildren: Thompson, Margaret and Henry Brown, Liv, Elle and George Scorey, Brock and Ford Jenkins, Rees and Teddy Moore, Scotty and Fox Gomoll, Lollie Probasco and Ellis Probasco. As well, "Aunt Spark" leaves behind a multitude of fun-loving nieces and nephews, with whom the family especially enjoyed our holiday times together.
She was mightily blessed with the most devoted care team shepherded by the loving Christy Johnson, along with gracious Gabi Bailey, dedicated Anja Robinson, and Right at Home.
There will be a private family burial service, officiated by Reverend Frank Hitchings, followed by a Celebration of Life gathering at The Lookout Mountain Club Golf House on July 7th, from 3:00 until 6:00 o'clock.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be warmly welcomed by Fellowship of Christian Athletes: FCA, PO Box 338, Hixson, Tn. 37343, or Baylor School Christian Scholarship, 171 Baylor School Rd., Chattanooga, Tn., 37405, or a charity of your choice.
You may share condolences with the Probasco Family at www.heritagechattanooga.com
Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, Tn.