Betty K. Nelson

Nelson, Betty Jean Kivett, age 91, born December 30, 1929, passed away Sunday, January 17, 2021 at Parkwest Hospital. She was born in Okotoks, Alberta, Canada, where her father was drilling for oil. She graduated from Halls High School in 1948, and was part of the cheerleading squad for the Red Devils. Afterward, she attended Draughans Business College, after which began her 10 year career at GMAC in downtown Knoxville. She married Adrian Nelson SR October 27, 1951, and she lived in the loft apartment at Lottie Hutson’s home on Woodrow Avenue while Adrian served in Korea. The couple moved to Halls in 1956, where they remained until their deaths. Betty graduated from UT Knoxville in 1967, with an education degree. She did this despite having 3 small children underfoot. She began teaching at Halls Elementary in 1967, moving to Adrian Burnette Elementary when it was built. She retired in 1995 after 28 years. She was an active member of Salem Baptist Church since 1958. Betty is survived by her siblings Garrett Kivett and Shirley Daniel Sharp, as well as, her children Patricia Rogers (Larry), Adrian Jr (Rochelle), and Matt Nelson (Veronica); grandchildren Zachary, Zane, Zeke, and Zeb Rogers and wives, twins Alexandra Nelson Tomlinson and Victoria Nelson, along with their brother Chas (deceased); great-grandchildren Riz and Raleigh Rogers. Betty believed kindness was always the best approach, and that there is good in everyone, both of which she practiced daily in the classroom and in life. She had the opportunity of teach multiple generations in the community. Betty showed love and compassion towards her family, friends and students. Many of her former students still recall the teachings and kindness she instilled in them as young children. Betty was active with her Salem Sunday School class led my Bill and Brenda Crisp, Young at Hearts and she was a honorary member of the Halls Crossroads Women's League. Special thanks to Barbara Arms and Bob & Mary Ann Palmer. Heaven is much sweeter to us knowing she is in the presence of her savior. Funeral service will be held at 6:00pm Friday, January 22, 2021, at Salem Baptist Church, Rev. Toby Everette officiating. You may view the service live online at: mysalembaptist.online.church. Social distancing guidelines will be observed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Salem Baptist Church, Bill and Brenda Crisp Sunday School Class, in memory of Betty Nelson. A private graveside will be held, per Betty’s request. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mynattfh.com