Betty Jane Parsley

Betty Jane Parsley, born January 23, 1935, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on October 25, 2025 at the age of 90. She was the daughter of late Johnny and Betsy Mayhone and was a long time resident of Lenore, WV. She would tell anybody she met that Mingo County was the best place to live. She was preceded in death by her husband Allen Jay Parsley Sr., her siblings, Cecil (Irene) Mayhone, Faye (Rudy) Hatfield, John Mayhone and Lossie Mayhone, her children Allen Jay Parsley “Sock” Jr., and Carole Ann Parsley Vagott. Betty is survived by her daughter, Teresa and husband Mike Matney, daughter-in-law, Beth Parsley, her stepsons, Dexter (Dyann) Parsley and Ray (Asima) Newsome, grandchildren, Emily Cloer, Katie (James) Eminger, Zane (Tory) Parsley, Nathan (Charity) Matney, Justin Matney, Caitlin (Chris) Wallen, Katherine (Chris) Hollingsworth, Sarah Taylor, Sarah (Nick) Zappone, Chloe (Josh) Dewey and a host of great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces and long time friends. Betty was born in Holden, WV and her family moved often due to her father’s work. She graduated from Lenore High School and went on to Marshall University to get a bachelor’s degree in education. Being an eager learner, she also received a master’s degree in education. She taught a multitude of students whom she loved dearly. Teaching was not only an occupation for Betty, but it was her calling from God. In addition to teaching in the classroom, she taught Sunday school in her church for many years. If asked, Betty would readily admit Jesus was her best friend, and He was always with her. An eternal educator, Betty was also a lifelong learner; at any given moment, she could be found with a book or three (and potentially an extra in her pocketbook, just in case). Not only did she teach from textbooks and curriculum, but, most importantly, she taught by example. Her kindness and persistent optimism were ever present, and she saw the best and most beautiful in everyone she knew. Her quiet bravery in the face of hardships was a facet of her that inspired so many, and she called on strength from Jesus in times of turmoil. It was evident to all who knew her that she loved God and strived to show it in how she lived by showing kindness to everyone she encountered. One of the most important parts of Betty’s life was her family. She loved each family member dearly and did anything she could to help them. A person did not have to be blood related to her to be the recipient of her generosity. She consistently gave whatever she could to help those in need. Her bright presence and warm smile were known to fill a room, and though she was small in stature, she was enormous in spirit. Some friends in her exercise class light heartedly gave her the nickname Sergeant Betty due to her instruction style. Laughter was a key component of who Betty was, and she loved making others laugh and smile. She was always trying to find new ways to bring bright spots of joy into the lives of anyone she encountered. Betty left an indelible print on all who knew her, and her legacy will live on with those who were blessed enough to love her during her time on earth. Funeral services for Betty will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at 1:00pm at the Parsley Bottom Freewill Baptist Church at Lenore, WV. Rev. Matthew Runyon will be officiating. Burial will follow in the Mayhone Cemetery at Lenore, WV. Friends and family will serve as pallbearers. Visitation will be at the church Wednesday morning from 12:00pm until the start of the funeral. Chafin Funeral Home is proudly serving the Parsley/Mayhone family.

Betty Jane Parsley

January 23, 1935 - October 25, 2025

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Betty Jane Parsley

January 23, 1935 - October 25, 2025

365 Days of Grief Support

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information