Betty Jean (Dunsmuir) Cawley

Betty Jean (Dunsmuir) Cawley, age 94, passed away peacefully with family on February 15th, 2021.

She was born on April 12, 1926 in Hammond, Indiana and lived most of her life in Savannah, GA.

She leaves a legacy of 6 children, 16 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and 2, great, great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her mother Nativity (Custin)Bragg, father Robert Dunsmuir; Sisters Faye Holstein and Bobbi Trevino; Sons John S. Cawley (Pete) and Warren R. Cawley (Jimmy). She is survived by sisters Marian Taylor, Martha Brown and Ann Colanero; Sons Bob Cawley (Mary) and David Cawley; Daughters Kathleen Mott and Rebecca (Roberto) Albertani.

Betty was a graduate of Draughons business college which led to many jobs, but much of her career was spent with the HRA Dept at Memorial Medical Center. She worked in this department for over fifty years and after retirement you could call her at home and she would still sometimes answer “Betty Cawley, Personal.” She was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where she served many years in the primary organization teaching children. Her love of children and passion for being of service extended to the community when she volunteered as a den mother. Her crafting talent shone through with her elaborate skits and round table decorations. She also volunteered at the Kicklighter School for the mentally handicapped during the summers when funds were not allocated. She spent summers at the beach and lived on Tybee Island for many years where she owned and operated Seaweeds Sno-Ball Shop. Running the shop was a family affair where her daughters and grandchildren would work shifts during the summer. It was here she was known as “Grandma” to everyone who frequented the shop. The summer vacationers always looked forward to seeing her and getting a cold treat. She loved to cook and bake especially during the holidays. Christmas was always an extra special for her family with her meticulous decorations and thoughtful presents. Her love for children carried over to a large collection of dolls which was always a favorite for any female in her family. Several holiday seasons were spent managing a doll stand at the holidays where she would dress and style the dolls hair much to everyone’s approval. She was a fan of Elvis Presley and was able to see him concert. As a teenager, she could be found at the USO clubs dancing. She passed down her love of dance and music to her children and grandchildren. Betty also had a passion for gardening. Her green thumb rivaled the best around as it did not seem like there was anything that she couldn’t grow. Family and friends enjoyed fresh vegetables each year, but it her jalapeno peppers where the highlight of each season. When she relocated from Tybee Island to Savannah, it took a crew several hours and a U-Haul truck to transport most of her plants which were carefully replanted under her watchful eye. In her last years, her most treasured plants were divided amongst her family to have in their lives after she was gone.

A celebration of life will be held grave side at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 315 Greenwich Rd. Savannah, GA on February 19th, 2021 at 12:00 pm.