Betty Ann Brown was ole Barnwell to many

When I first heard of our friend’s passing, my mind said, “I am happy for her. She is in a better place.” Yet, there was an immediate tug at my heart saying, “Things will never be the same. I miss her already.”

If, by chance, you never knew Barnwell’s Betty Ann Smith Brown, well, you have really missed a wonderful lady who was considered by lots of folks as being their “best friend”. She was just that easy to love.

In years gone by, everyone felt welcome to knock at the back door of Larry and Betty Ann’s home on Hagood Avenue in Barnwell and just walk on in. The lady of the house would bombard you with one question followed by another while husband Larry sat quietly taking it all in. The length of the visit depended on how many questions Betty Ann asked. When leaving, Larry would make some kinda remark which virtually put the icing on the cake. They were both good company, and we were already looking forward to our next visit.

Some time following Larry’s passing, Betty Ann took up residence at Anchor Rebab in Aiken. She was quick to explain to all visitors that her decision was for the best; that keeping round the clock help at home was out of the question. Since son Forrest lived and worked in Atlanta, Ga. while daughter Emmylou lived in the family home and worked in the surrounding area, Betty Ann would require in home care 24/7. What if a caregiver was unable to show up for work? Who would tend to Betty Ann? So, the decision to relocate to Anchor Rehab was made for the betterment of all concerned.

Besides having explained all of this, it was her responsibility to set a good example for others to follow. Once a teacher, always a teacher. Plus, the fact this certainly proved that at 95 years, our lady was still in charge!

Here, Betty Ann was laying the groundwork for visitors who were in similar situations. Her remarks were proof that if she could pull up roots and adjust, so could they. Because our friend was loved, admired, and trusted, several of her visitors eventually adopted her positive attitude for themselves and planned their futures accordingly. She was so proud that her former students followed her lead. You see, her opinion still counted!

On my first visit to see Betty Ann (B. A.) at Anchor, my thinking was that my time spent would cheer her up. Nothing could have been further from the truth. You see, our friend’s mind was as sharp as a tack while her questions regarding her beloved Barnwell covered the ground just like the morning dew. No stone was left unturned. When I stood to depart, her hand covered mine with a downward pat saying, “Oh, please don’t leave yet. I am not through talking.” I obediently sat back down.

Quite often, B.A. would call at night. She was anxious to confirm or not whether a certain rumor was founded. She knew most of Barnwell and remained interested in the well-being of its townsfolks. She was forever interested enough to ask “good” questions….lots of questions. I could tell that she missed living at home; however, she never mentioned it to me not even once.

Our lady could easily have been one of the most popular patients at Anchor Rehab. Former students continued to drop by for visits plus friends from Barnwell First Baptist Church and others who knew to look for their friend in the courtyard on sunny days. It tickled me seeing her with her pink cap shading the bright rays of sunlight from her eyes. She appeared to be somewhat “sporty” and forever grateful to family and friends for spending time with her.

Betty Ann Brown’s life was one of encouraging those who lacked self-worth, guiding those who were uncertain about which steps to take, promoting positive vibes, and always and forever saying, “We do have faith, but remember to always do the right thing. Then, you’ll have no regrets.”

This teacher lived by example. Now all we have to do is to follow.

In closing, Philippians 1:3 states, “I thank my God whenever I think of you; and every time I pray for you, I pray with joy.”