Betty Blackwell Jenkins

Betty Blackwell Jenkins, a beloved member of the Gaston County community and a dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully at her residence on September 26, 2023. She was surrounded by her loving family during her final moments. Betty lived a remarkable life and leaves behind cherished memories that will forever be held dear.
Born on July 22, 1929 in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, Betty was the daughter of Ulyss T. Blackwell and Lula Mae Lucas Blackwell. She grew up in a loving household and developed strong values that would guide her throughout her life. Betty's passion for education led her to graduate from Cramerton High School in 1947.
From a young age, Betty exhibited an unwavering work ethic and dedication to serving others. She embarked on her professional journey while still in high school. Betty began working in the Gaston County Clerk of Superior Courts office in 1947.  She began as a Deputy Clerk of Superior Court, eventually becoming an Assistant Clerk of Superior Court.  In 1973, George C. Holland passed away unexpectedly and Betty was appointed on February 5, 1973 as The Clerk of Superior Court for the County of Gaston where she served until her retirement in 2002. When Betty marked her 50^th anniversary in the Clerks office, the Gaston County Bar Association marked the occasion with a portrait. Betty worked in the Clerks office for 55 years, she was the elected clerk for 29 years.

Her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to justice made a lasting impact on the Gaston County Court System. Outside of work, Betty was a pillar of strength and love for those around her. Her caring nature touched the lives of countless individuals who were fortunate enough to call her family or friend. She had many fond memories during her lifetime - memories that will continue to bring comfort and joy to her loved ones for years to come. Betty was predeceased by her beloved husband of 56 years, Charles Bost Jenkins, who passed away on August 16, 2004. She was also preceded in death by her grandson, William Boyd Padgett III, and her sister, Jean Stowe. Although Betty's passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, her spirit will forever live on through the memories they shared.
She is survived by her devoted children: Mike Jenkins (Lorrie Hall) and Martha "Marty" Blake. Betty's ex-daughter-in-law, Barbara Jenkins Auten, remained a cherished member of the family even after divorce. Her grandchildren, Michael Jenkins (Christine General), Tommy Jenkins (Brandi), Julie Adair (Tony), and Nathan Blake, were a source of great pride and joy for Betty. She also leaves behind her beloved great-grandchildren: Alexis Adair, Owen Jenkins, and Olivia Jenkins. In addition to her immediate family.
To honor the life of Betty Blackwell Jenkins, visitation services will be held on October 1, 2023 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation located at 2916 Union Road in Gastonia, North Carolina. The visitation will begin at 2:00 PM and conclude at 4:00 PM. The family will not be present for the visitation. The family will receive friends from 1:00p.m., until 2:00p.m. prior to the service at the church
A Celebration of Life service will take place on October 2, 2023 at Cramer Memorial United Methodist Church located at 154 North Main Street in Cramerton, North Carolina. The service will commence at 2:00 PM with Dr. David B. Julen officiating. Interment will follow at Gaston Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Michael Jenkins, Tommy Jenkins, Tony Adair, Mike Jenkins, Danny Auten and Nathan Blake.
Betty Jenkins will always be remembered for her unwavering dedication to justice and love for her family. Her legacy of integrity, compassion, and hard work will inspire generations to come. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her family and friends find solace in the memories they shared with her. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gaston Hospice, Robin Johnson House, P.O. Box 3984, Gastonia, NC  28054

Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenatfuneral.com