Betty Ann McLeod

Betty Ann McLeod (née Lawson) August 28, 1937 – May 3, 2025 

Betty Ann McLeod was born on Saturday, August 28, 1937, to Sara Pearl Ladd and Orville Lawson. She passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 3, 2025.

For much of her life, Betty believed her name was Elizabeth Ann—and she was so confident in it that she even signed legal documents as Elizabeth. Regardless of what was on paper, to her five children she was simply “Mom” or “Mama.” To her 10 grandchildren, she was “Nana” (or, affectionately and jokingly, “Little Shit” if they were tall enough to outrun her). She proudly held that title for 16 great-grandchildren and 2 great- great grandchildren as well.

Betty’s early life was marked by hardship and resilience. At just five years old, she lost her mother. With her father Orville away serving in World War II, Betty and her siblings Ormand, Barbara and Stewart were separated and cared for by extended family. She was raised during that time by her Aunt Hazel.

After the war, Orville remarried, and Betty gained three more siblings: Shirley, George, and Blanche. At age 17, Betty married the love of her life, Douglas Edwin McLeod, on December 4, 1954. The wedding was a whirlwind of young love and promise, with both dressed in their Sunday best. Together they raised five children: Susan Elizabeth, Cynthia Dianne, John Douglas, Christine Joy, and Jeffery Edwin.

Betty was a talented and passionate cook—though her kitchen could be described as ‘creative chaos.’ Luckily, she had children to help with the cleanup. While she was never overly concerned with tidiness, she valued cleanliness and the feeling of a lived-in home filled with love. She had a deep love of music, often harmonizing with Doug during car rides or while visiting with her brother Stewart and sister-in-law Rose, where music and laughter were always in the air.

Betty’s husband Doug passed in 2006 and the family lost the couple’s son John just last year. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and music. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

A small family service will take place in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, please support Andy’s House.