Ferrell, Betty Shrader
Betty Opal Ferrell, of Narrows, Virginia devoted family matriarch and beacon of faith, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2024, in Pearisburg, VA. Born on July 8, 1949, in Bluefield, WV, Betty’s life was a tapestry of courage, love, and unwavering belief that was woven into the hearts of all who knew her.
Betty’s journey began in Bluefield, WV as the daughter of the late Earl and Opal Bowers Shrader. She grew up surrounded by the love of her sister, Maggie Mullins (Calvin); and brothers, Earl Shrader (Pam), and the late Carl and Ray Shrader. Her warmth and compassion drew the love of her life, Joseph Ferrell Sr., to her side, and together they built a life filled with joy and purpose.
A skilled seamstress, Betty spent many years at Oxford, where her keen eye for detail and her diligent work ethic were greatly valued. Her professional accomplishments, however, were always secondary to the love and commitment she demonstrated towards her family. Betty and Joseph were blessed with two children, Joseph “Jo Jo” Ferrell (Stacy) and Betty Jo Owens (Darrell), who in turn filled her life with the bustle and delight of grandchildren: Drew, Carter, Morgan, Briar, Hunter, Rachel, and Tyler. Her home was a hub of activity, where the laughter of her grandchildren was the music that fueled her days. Her family extended beyond the bounds of blood, including several cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless individuals who were proud to be counted among her special friends. Betty’s ability to make everyone feel like family was one of her most extraordinary gifts.
Betty’s faith was the cornerstone of her existence. A faithful member of Kellysville Church of God, she read her Bible frequently, drawing strength and inspiration from its pages. Her presence was a constant at church functions, and her devotion was an example to all. Betty’s faith was not passive; she actively lived her beliefs, including participating in the survivors’ lap at Relay for Life, a testament to her fighting spirit, hope, and the victory that she found in her Savior.
Her interests were a reflection of her love for life and community. Betty found joy in simple pleasures, such as sitting on her front porch, a vantage point from which she could watch her grandchildren play sports and delight in the comings and goings of her neighborhood. An avid collector of pictures, she captured moments big and small, creating a visual legacy of the life she so loved.
Betty was also known for hosting yard sales that became social gatherings and eagerly venturing out to find treasures at other yard sales. Whether buying or selling, she cherished the interactions and the stories that each item carried.
Courageous, loving, and faith-filled are words that only begin to describe Betty. Her life was a living example of these virtues, and her legacy is one that will continue to inspire and guide those she has left behind. Betty’s unwavering love and her unshakeable faith are the threads that will remain woven within the fabric of her family and community.
The family will have a time of visitation with extended family and friends on Thursday, March 21, 2024 from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM in the Kendall Funeral Home. A funeral service will be conducted Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM in the Kendall Funeral Home Chapel with Pastors Franklin Adkins and Patrick Terry officiating. Funeral services will conclude at Fairview Cemetery in Narrows, Virginia where she will be laid to rest. While flowers are appreciated, the family requests in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made in Mrs. Ferrell’s honor to Giles County Relay for Life. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Ferrell family.