Elizabeth Hickerson "Betty" Butterworth

1928 - 2024

BUTTERWORTH, Elizabeth "Betty" Hickerson, age 96, died April 11, 2024, at Westminster Canterbury Richmond. Born on March 6, 1928, in Russellville, AR to the late Reverend Dr. Clyde V. and Amy C. Hickerson, she was predeceased by her husband of 60 years Dr. John "Jack" F. Butterworth III; son, Dr. John F. Butterworth IV; and sisters, Dr. Amy H. Dalton and Sue H. Jett. She is survived by her sister, Louise H. Wiley; two daughters, Ann V. Butterworth and Elizabeth B. Stutts (fiance James W.O. Warrington); daughter-in-law, Pamela R. Butterworth; six grandchildren, Kristin M. Yavorsky (Michael), Matthew S. Butterworth (Sophia), John F. Ockerman (Kate), Dr. Elizabeth O. Hubbard (Matthew), Calder S. Stutts and Jackson S. Stutts; and six great-grandchildren, William J. and Nicholas P. Yavorsky, Foster W., and Elizabeth W. Ockerman, and Finnian H. and Eddings L. Hubbard. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and other close relatives in both her and her late husband's families.

Betty and her family lived in Russellville and Hot Springs, AR, San Antonio, TX, and Richmond, VA where her father served Baptist churches. Betty and her three sisters spent many happy summer vacations at the family farm in Fauquier County, VA.

After graduating from Breckinridge High School in San Antonio, Betty attended Westhampton College of the University of Richmond where she met her husband Jack. After graduating in 1948, they married in 1950 while Jack was attending the Medical College of Virginia. Betty served as a school teacher at Lakeside Elementary in Henrico County while Jack finished his training as an orthopedic surgeon.

Betty will be remembered for her kind heart and witty sense of humor. She loved her family. Betty was an active member of The Tuckahoe Woman's Club and served as President of the F.W. Boatwright Society. She enjoyed spending time at Virginia Beach and playing bridge and dominoes with her friends at Westminster Canterbury. Betty had a strong Christian faith and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. Previously, she was an active member of River Road Presbyterian Church, serving as an elder.

The memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 6, 2024, in the Sanctuary of Westminster Canterbury Richmond. A reception will follow. Please arrive 30 minutes early to allow for parking. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to First Presbyterian Church, Westhampton College, CrossOver Healthcare Ministry, or the charity of your choice.