Betty Kay Colvin

Betty Kay Colvin, 88 of Holly Hill, South Carolina, wife of the late William Jerome Colvin, Jr, passed away on Monday, August 21, 2023 surrounded by her family.

Born on March 22, 1935 in Dothan, AL Betty was a daughter of the late Berchie Calhoun and Burnos Calhoun. 

As a member of the greatest generation, her life demonstrated her dedication and devotion to her God, her family and her community. 

From very poor beginnings, Betty was truly a self made woman.  Growing up after the depression, she often worked in the cotton fields and dreamed of having lush carpets in her own home.  She worked very hard in school and finished as the valedictorian of her high school class.  She continued her work ethic becoming a realtor and vice president of several television and radio stations.  As she progressed in her career she moved further into the management and accounting of the company's real estate holdings in San Diego, CA, managing an entire city block.  Through hard work, she became quite the business woman.  

In 1979, she met the love of her life William J. Colvin Jr. They both enjoyed telling the story of how they met on an airplane in San Diego and never exchanged names, only to meet again 5 weeks later in the baggage claim at the same airport. They were true soulmates and were married March 1, 1980 and enjoyed a marriage of 34 years until Bill’s passing. 

She was actively involved in her community and church after moving to Holly Hill in 1980. She was a very friendly and approachable lady who loved being around other people. She was involved in many community activities such as the Holly Hill garden club and a number of women’s groups that volunteered and gave generously to the causes of the community. She was an active member of the United Methodist church for over 40 years and enjoyed many years singing in the church choir. 

Betty was a devoted mother, stepmother and “Nana” to many grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

Betty is predeceased by her parents, her husband, Bill, and a daughter, Linda Holmes.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Kristie Kirkpatrick (Steve), and granddaughter who she raised, Natalie Griffin Bodie (David), sons, Scott Griffin, Spencer Griffin, and Steven Griffin.

Her loving influence also extended to her step-children, William Jerome Colvin III (Rosemary), Ann Colvin Payne (William), Kay Lillian Colvin, and Becky Colvin Bates (Fred).

Grandchildren include Sky and Kyle Kirkpatrick, Danielle Griffin, Jessica Munn-Dabney, Travis and Tyler Woody, Nicholas Griffin, Kennedy and Connor Griffin, Ashley Hobbs (Allie), Tyler Hobbs (Regan), Elisa Hobbs (Jeffrey) , Lauren Colvin Zwitt (Matt), William Jerome Colvin, IV (Diana), John Ryan Colvin, Katherine Ramos, Caroline Ramos, Jordan Ramos, William Christian Barrett ( Shannon), Lisse Barrett, and John Taylor Jackson and numerous great grandchildren.

Betty will be remembered by many as a true southern lady with a welcoming smile and an extra measure of hospitality.  Her unconditional love for others, generosity and kindness will leave a lasting legacy. 

The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 26, 2023 from 1-3PM at Avinger Funeral Home, a service will follow in the chapel of the funeral home at 3PM. Burial will conclude at the Holly Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital and MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at avingerfh.com/. 

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Avinger Funeral Home, 2274 Eutaw Rd, Holly Hill, SC 29059, (803)496-3434.