Bessie Louise Washington

Bessie Louise Washington, most affectionately known as “Betty” departed this life into life eternal with her Heavenly Father on Tuesday, August 22, 2023.

Betty was born on April 13, 1948 to the late Booker T. and Nannie (Henley) Washington in Albemarle County, Virginia.

Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by four of her siblings, Elizabeth Forbes, Richard Washington, Henry Washington and Raymond Washington.

Betty’s country upbringing in the commonwealth of Virginia culminated with her graduation from Burley High School (Charlottesville) in 1966. It was some time thereafter she migrated to our nation’s capital, settled in, and made Washington, DC her home. While Virginia was her birthplace, DC had her heart until its final beat. Betty truly embraced the spirit of city life. In fact, she worked for the Metropolitan Police Department. Later, she worked as a civil servant at the Department of Commerce. After 32 years of faithful service to the government she retired in March of 2004.

A devoted Washington Redskins fan who never missed a game, Betty was a true enthusiast of the sport. She cheered passionately for her team through thick and thin. And with the arrival of the cooler months, a childlike joy ignited in her.  She loved watching for cardinals. Those “red birds” had a way of instantly lifting her spirit. The blanket of freshly fallen snow atop the urban landscape of her beloved city made the most cherished memories. Perhaps that is why she took such joy in meticulously wrapping Christmas gifts for her loved ones, practically turning it into an art.

Betty was happiest in the simple act of staying connected with loved ones and her Heavenly Father. Her love of family illuminated through consistent conversations, be it weekly or even daily. These cherished moments of sharing and laughing were a cornerstone of her life, binding her loved ones together with the threads of affection. Her love of Jesus Christ anchored her in this life and served as a guidepost, shaping her values and nurturing her spirit.  She remained a member in good standing at Mt. Alto Baptist Church (Esmont, VA).

Betty leaves to cherish her memory: son, Terry Washington of Washington, DC; daughter, Danielle Tyson (Derrick) of Upper Marlboro, MD; six siblings: Josephine Haden of Charlottesville, VA, Ellen Harris of Charlottesville, VA, Irene Burns of Charlottesville, George Washington (Barbara Ann) of Charlottesville, Patricia Ayres of Howardsville, Ann Thurston (Wilbert Thurston) of Howardsville and; four beautiful grandchildren: Brandon, Ryan, Alyssa, and Kai’Leigh Tyson; and a host of extended family members and friends.

A graveside service will be conducted at 11:00 AM on Thursday, August 31, 2023 at Mt. Alto Baptist Church, 4330 Mt. Alto Rd. in Esmont, VA.

Family and friends may share photos and memories at thackerbrothers.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bessie Louise Washington, please visit our floral store.