Betty Jane Young was born in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on January 18, 1947 to the late Jim Bellamy and Alberta Grisett-Bellamy. She had twelve siblings. One sister (Mary) and seven brothers; James, Frank, Ceasar, Leroy, David, Prince, and Henry who preceded her in death.

She was educated in Myrtle Beach in the Horry County School System. After graduation, Betty realized she had a talent in the cosmetology field. She then relocated to Florida to attend Sunrise School of Beauty Culture, where she received her diploma and then relocated to New York City. Shortly after, a divine encounter occurred when she met Thomas C. Young. The Bible says in Proverbs 18:22, “He who finds a wife, finds a treasure and he receives favor from the Lord.” From this union they were blessed with a loving daughter, Tanaisha.

Betty was employed by Woolworth Clothing Store in Manhattan, NY. Once again, deciding to further her education enrolled in Allen School for Physicians Aides located in Queens, NY, earning certification as a Phlebotomy Technician and obtained employment at Baptist Medical Hospital in Brooklyn, NY.

She was a charter member of Smith-Thompson Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, serving in various ministries in the Body of Christ; member of Class #1, Founding President of the Alter Guild, Usher, Pastor’s Aid, Stewardess, Choir Member, and Missionary. In 2011 Betty was elevated to the office of Deaconess and Consecrated on June 5, 2012...a proud moment for her family and friends. She was affiliated with New Hope Chapter #56, OES.

Betty had many hobbies, such as sewing, crocheting, last but not least, baking some of the most delicious cakes ―a talent that she passed on to both of her granddaughters. If you have never tasted her Coconut Pineapple or German Chocolate cakes, you have missed paradise on earth.

One will never be able to forget hearing her melodious voice. Once Betty began to sing, the presence of the Lord filled the sanctuary. She will always be remembered for singing her favorite songs, Living Testimony and Walk Around Heaven. She also enjoyed singing duets with her husband.

Departing this life on January 30, 2012, she leaves to mourn: her loving, loyal, devoted husband of forty-two years, Thomas; one daughter, Tanaisha Tucker, (Marcell) of Atlanta, GA; two granddaughters, Marlaysia and Taniyah, whom she loved dearly; two brothers: Louis (Clarice), Ivory (Zelan), of Myrtle Beach, SC; three sisters: Mazie (Jerome), Carrie, Estelle; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, and neighbors who called her Mom, and her special friend, Margaret Robinson. All held a unique place in her heart.

There is a bridge that stretches from earth to glory...the bridge of love