Betty Elizabeth Secrease

Betty Elizabeth Secrease was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 22, 1937, to Madeline Rebecca Johnson- Hardy and Ivory Van Hardy. She was one of three children (Ivory Jr., Betty, Bruce) born to their union. Betty spent her formative years in Chicago. She married three times to spouses, Edward Luther Williams, Luthrel Gillett, and Leon Secrease, all of whom preceded her in death.
Betty aspired to have a career in nursing and while a single parent of four, she began her journey to fulfill her vision of helping others. She began her post-secondary education at Kennedy King College, Chicago, IL where she graduated with honors in Nursing in 1976. She went on to work for several esteemed medical institutions, including Michael Reese Hospital, Chicago, IL and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA. Betty retired from full-time nursing in 1996, after working 10 years at Los Angeles County Juvenile Court Health Services.
In 1993, Betty exhibited her entrepreneurial spirit by opening Elizabeth Homes, a residential facility for severely disabled adults in West Covina, CA. She served as co-owner and Administrator until she relocated after the death of her beloved husband Leon to Woodbridge, VA to be closer to family.
Betty loved to travel whether it was down the road or around the world by car, bus, boat, train, or plane. At various times, she was fortunate enough to have children living in different areas of the United States, France, and Japan which she visited often. She also traveled extensively with her brother Bruce, with whom she shared adventures to India and China. Her vast adventures also included trips throughout Europe and the Caribbean.
Betty was a Christian, attending several congregations where she volunteered her talents. At her last church, First Mount Zion Baptist Church (FMZBC) in Dumfries, VA, she served as one of the leaders of the Senior Ministry. Her duties included organizing monthly meetings, social events, and field trips. She attended FMZBC until she was no longer physically able.
Betty was a loving, caring mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. "Granny" as she was affectionately called by the children, continued to participate, and share in family functions up until shortly before her passing. She was known to dance with her youngest daughter and great-grandchildren, share special treats, and moments of laughter and joy. She tried to never miss celebrations and functions, like weddings, graduations, sporting events, and family dinners.
In 2019, she relocated with her oldest daughter and her family to Round Rock, TX. Betty was called home to be with the Lord in the early hours on August 3, 2021.
Betty will be loved and missed by all. She leaves to cherish her memory: 3 daughters, Stephanie (Cornel) Holder, Madeline "Angie" (Gregory) Gill, Judy Gillett; son, Edward Luther Williams, Jr.; two brothers, Ivory Van (Sandra) Hardy, Jr, Bruce Stanley Hardy; six grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, including her hangout pal and travel partner, Carrie Diggs.