Betty Jean Guest

Betty Jean Guest, 77, of Comer, passed away on Monday, August 26, 2024.

A lifelong resident of Madison County, Betty was the oldest child of Richard Strickland and Jenny Sue Herring Strickland. Betty's parents died when she was a young woman, leaving behind ten younger siblings. Betty took charge as their surrogate mother, and she never stopped being a strong (and strong-willed) mother figure to everyone who knew her. Anyone could come to her with her problems, and she would listen and give good, practical advice. She was a true matriarch as well as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a woman of faith and a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church in Comer. In her last years, Betty suffered greatly from a long illness, but she continued to fight and remain strong for her family. They are grateful that she has finally found her peace.

Along with her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Clyde Guest, Jr., and one brother, James Strickland.

Betty is survived by her children: Sherry (Jeff) Smith, Carol Sims, and Joe Guest III; nine siblings: Thomas (Wanda) Strickland, Joe Paul (Ms. Anne) Strickland, Charlie Strickland, Sue Lowery, Johnny (Linda Kay) Strickland, Donny Strickland, Mary Bridges, Shirley (Alex) Lowery, and Wayne (Diane) Strickland; five grandchildren: Casey (Carissa) Smith, Staci Sims, Kalei Guest, Joe Guest IV, and Ezra Guest; and three great-grandchildren: Ana Smith, Rya Smith, and Mika Smith.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 30 at Oak Grove Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. Mrs. Guest will lie in state for one hour prior to the service. A reception will follow the service in the fellowship hall. The family will receive friends at Lord and Stephens, Danielsville Chapel on Thursday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, Danielsville, GA, is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com