Betty Jean Harrison, age 97, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, December 29, 2025. Born on December 10, 1928, to Clem and Lillian Caldwell, she was the sixth of eight children and entered the world without a given name. Her parents simply called her "Pete," a nickname given by a neighbor boy. When the 1930 census workers arrived, her parents were told she needed a name and chose the name Betty Jean—but Pete was a name that stuck. Many people, including her husband Arthur, continued to call her Pete, and her nieces and nephews lovingly knew her as Aunt Pete.

Betty married Arthur Harrison on August 7, 1946. They raised three children (Larry, Sheila, and Raymond) and shared a devoted marriage of 73 years until Arthur's passing on August 24, 2019.

Betty lived a life marked by strength, generosity, and unwavering faith. She was a lifelong member of Leola Missionary Baptist Church, where her faith guided and strengthened her throughout her life. Known for being an excellent cook, Betty loved preparing meals for her family and friends. Her table was always open and if you went to her house, she was going to try to feed you whether you were hungry or not. If you left hungry, it was your own fault. Pastor Johnie Brewster said anytime there was a death or illness in the church, he knew he could count on Betty and Marjorie to provide food for the family in need.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Arthur Harrison, her son Larry Harrison, and her siblings Dolene, Doyle, Katherine, Bill "Bullet", Clem "C.C"., and Marjorie.

She is survived by her daughter Sheila McGarity (Tim); her son Raymond Harrison (Virginia); her brother Charlie Caldwell; and her six grandchildren Mitchell Harrison (Kathy), Robbie Harrison (Susan), Eric Harrison (Melanie), Alana Williams (Brent), Joey Puckett (Charmagne), and Casey Puckett (Lezlee).

She was also blessed with 13 great-grandchildren, 11 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews—each of whom she loved dearly.

Visitation will be held at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Sheridan from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM on Friday, January 2, 2026. The graveside service will follow at the Leola Cemetery at 10:30 AM and will be officiated by her grandsons Robbie Harrison and Brent Williams.

Pallbearers are Brayden Williams, Caleb Harrison, Todd Riggan, Brandon Caldwell, Barry Groomes, and Reece Groomes.

The family would like to thank the caregivers from Gentiva Hospice:  Tammy, Angelea, Jeremy, Taylor, and John. Your care and support are greatly appreciated.