Betty M. Venable

Venable ~ Betty Mae Frances Howell was born April 21, 1934, in Columbia, South Carolina to her parents, Deacon Eli Howell and Sister Margaret Williams Howell. At an early age she moved to Jacksonville, Florida where she attended Bowling Haven School for Girls. Betty joined Second Missionary Baptist Church where she faithfully served as the President of the Pastoral Ministry for Reverend Dr. Odell Smith, Jr.  As a dedicated member of District 16, led by Deacon Johnny McCray, she served tirelessly as an arts and crafts volunteer for vacation bible school, sung in the Belle Waters Mass Choir and successfully completed the Baptist Young People training.

She worked at Florida Community College at Jacksonville, North Campus, as the childcare Dietician for numerous years. Betty earned numerous commendations for her hard work and commitment before retiring.

Betty wed Floyd E. Venable in 1953.  From their union four children were born: twin daughters, Yvette (Renaldo) and Yvonne (Charles, Jr.), Karen (Shyon) and son, Floyd, Jr.

She was preceded in death by her son, Floyd, Jr.; parents, Mr. & Mrs. Howell; nephew, Antonio C. Barnes; niece, Benetta Ross; and special friend, Robert Mays. Betty is survived by her three daughters; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; her loving twin sister, Billie Kay Barnes; sister-in-law, Jean Venable Harrison; nephews, Michael (Cheryl) Barnes, Charles Barnes; nieces, Evelyn (Louis) Quarterman, Jessie Frison, Carla Harrison; a special niece she helped raise as a daughter, Celestine Smith; along with numerous grand-nieces and nephews and a host of cousins and friends.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of Betty Mae Frances Howell Venable, 11 AM Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Second Missionary Baptist Church, 954 Kings Road.   Visitation Wednesday from 5 – 7 PM at The Soutel Chapel.  Interment in Sunset Memorial Cemetery. Because of the love of her family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, 5065 Soutel Dr, 904.924.9400

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