Betty Jewel Barnwell

Betty Jewel Atkins Barnwell, age 93 of 200 Dickson Rd, Campobello, SC, passed away Sunday, December 29, 2024 at her home with family. 

Betty was born in Tryon, NC on August 1, 1931. She was the daughter of the late Eco and Glenna Atkins of Gramling, SC. She was the widow of the late Robert Burton Barnwell and predeceased by her two sons, Barney and Byron and a son-in-law, Glenn French. Betty is survived by her two daughters, Betsy Ellington (Kim) of Vale, NC, Beth French of Ralston, Wy., a granddaughter, Betsy French, a grandson, Jackson Ellington, and two great grandchildren, Indigo and Eagle Song Ellington.

Betty was a lifelong member of Gramling Methodist Church. Her faith, country, work, education, family and friends occupied her every waking moment. She had a zest for life and lived it to its fullest. Early on her curiosity set her on a path to explore beyond the hometown. After graduating high school, she and her husband Robert traveled from the east coast to the west, to work and see the country. They eventually returned and settled in Gramling, SC. She then raised four children while working in the trucking industry. In 1972 she pursued a higher education. With a BA degree in hand from Limestone College, she became a 4th grade social studies teacher at Campobello-Gramling Elementary, where she taught until retirement. Her love of travel and history inspired her eventual travel to all 50 states. Later on in life, she and Robert rekindled relations with their Korean War veteran friends joining them at every reunion. She always made time to grow flowers and do kind deeds for someone. Her unconditional love, kind words, bright smile and humor will be missed. The family would like to thank her community, Comfort Keepers and private caregivers for providing compassionate care such that her last years were filled with dignity and vigor.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 pm, Sunday, January 5th at Gramling Methodist Church. The family will receive friends in the social hall at 2:00.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mobile Meals, PO Box 461, Spartanburg, SC 29304 or the charity of your choice.