Betty Johnson

Mrs. Betty Joyce Banks Johnson peacefully departed this earthly life and entered into eternal rest on May 8, 2026. Born on February 12, 1938, to the late John and Julia Banks, Betty was the last surviving member of her ten siblings, completing a remarkable generation of love, strength, and family legacy.

At an early age, Betty accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and faithfully lived her life rooted in faith. She was a member of Brookville Baptist Church, where her kindness, warmth, and servant’s heart touched many throughout the years.

Betty found joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments. She loved sewing, gardening flowers and vegetables, listening to gospel music, and reading the latest drama novels. She enjoyed spending time watching Food Network and Law & Order, but above all, baking was truly her claim to fame. Her kitchen was a place of love, comfort, and unforgettable memories. Affectionately known as “Aunt Joyce,” she made it her mission to remember every niece and nephew’s favorite cake for birthdays and holidays — whether pound cake, coconut cake, chocolate cake, or carrot cake. She wore the titles of Auntie, Mama and GiGi with pride and dedication.

Betty shared a beautiful and enduring love story with her beloved husband, Ryland Johnson, Sr. For 53 devoted years, theirs was a marriage that inspired everyone around them — a partnership filled with love, loyalty, faith, and friendship. Together they raised two beautiful children, Alfredia Charmane and Ryland Dewood Johnson, Jr., instilling in them the importance of family and ensuring they remained the very best of friends.

When Betty became a grandmother, her nurturing spirit shined even brighter. She dedicated the second half of her life to lovingly caring for her only granddaughter. From getting her on and off the school bus, driving to dance and piano lessons, attending every play, recital, and every graduation, to preparing favorite meals “just because,” she made sure her granddaughter always felt deeply loved. She even made certain Santa Claus stopped by her house too. Most importantly, she passed down lessons of faith, kindness, grace, and what it means to be a lady and love others well.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory: her beloved son, Ryland Dewood Johnson, Jr. (Tracey); her beloved granddaughter, Charmane Johnson Calloway (Jay); and her adored great-grandchildren, Jayson, Ariah, and Julian Calloway. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Amanda McCoy, and a host of loving nieces and nephews, including especially devoted nieces and nephew, JoAnne Copeland, Jean Long, Carolyn Woodson, Audrey and James McCoy.

In addition to her parents, siblings, and beloved husband, Betty was preceded in death by her cherished daughter. Now reunited in Heaven, all of these angels have wrapped their wings around her and welcomed her home in eternal peace.

Though her presence will be deeply missed, Betty Joyce Banks Johnson leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love, faith, family devotion, and sweet memories that will live on for generations to come.

A Celebration of Life honoring Betty’s memory will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Tharp Funeral Home on Breezewood Drive. Visitation with the family will take place one hour prior to the service. A repass and time of fellowship will follow immediately after the celebration.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.

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