Betty Jean Coxwell

Betty Jean Watford Coxwell, known affectionately as Betty by friends and family, passed away on May 14, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. Born in Houston County on October 24, 1936, Betty’s life was a tapestry of love for her family, faith, and selfless service in the ministry.

Betty was the beloved matriarch of a large and loving family. She is survived by her devoted children, Gary (Terrie) Coxwell, Sylvia (Jim) Martin, Rebecca (Dave Jr.) Franks, and Alicia (Steve) Weed. Her legacy of love continues through her grandchildren, Steven (Serena) Martin, Rachel (Eric) Farrell, Elisabeth (Darrin) Hargrove, Nathan (Alyssa) Franks, Kailey (Kyle) Johnson, Celeste (Jasper) Nichols, Kacey (Brandon) Acree, and Klara Beth Weed; as well as her great-grandchildren, Tyler Martin, Katelyn Martin, Trey Martin, Elijah Hargrove, Junia Hargrove, William Atwood, Toby Martin, Lydia Atwood, Matthew Hargrove, Lincoln Franks, Logan Franks, Kora Johnson, Kinley Johnson, and Abigail Nichols. She also leaves behind her sisters, Katie Metcalf and Margie (Alan) McAllister; sister-in-law, Mary Watford; and a host of cherished nieces and nephews. Betty Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Grady and Nancy Strickland Watford, by her husband, Rev. Thomas Coxwell, by her brother, Grady Luther Watford, and by her brother-in-law, James Douglas Metcalf.

Her journey began in Houston County, where her parents, Grady and Nancy Strickland Watford, raised her with strong values. Betty attended Slocomb High School, and her commitment to education was underscored when she received her GED the same year her youngest daughter graduated from high school. Betty was a beacon of dedication and resilience, qualities that were reflected in her role as a pastor's wife and caregiver, where she served her community with grace and devotion.

Betty’s life was a testament to her faith-filled spirit and her loving heart. She was a woman who not only loved the Lord but also embodied His teachings in her everyday actions. Betty was a faithful member of Timbers Drive Free Will Baptist Church.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held at 2 pm on Monday, May 19, 2025, at Timbers Drive Free Will Baptist Church. It will be a time for friends and family to gather and remember a woman whose presence was a blessing to all who knew her. Betty will be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Park, where her memory will be cherished. Prior to the service, the family will receive friends at the church from 1-2 pm, offering a space to share stories and comfort one another.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Wiregrass Homecare, Westside Terrace, and Vitas Hospice, who provided Betty with exceptional care and compassion during her final days. Their kindness has been a source of comfort and support to the family in this time of sorrow.

Betty's journey through life was marked by her loving nature, her faith-filled soul, and her selfless approach to all she did. She was a woman of remarkable strength, leaving a legacy that will be honored and remembered by all who were touched by her kindness.

Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com