Life’s Reflections
Bettye Jean Brazzell was born on November 29, 1935, to Mr. George and Mrs. Rosa Lee Johnson in Marks, MS, Bettye’s warmth and vibrant spirit shone brightly from the very beginning. Her family later moved to Memphis, TN, where she attended Melrose High School, leaving a trail of laughter and joy in her wake.
Bettye was a true ray of sunshine, known for her outgoing personality and zest for life. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel special, effortlessly engaging everyone she met in delightful conversations. Her laughter was infectious, and her ability to bring joy to others was a hallmark of her character.
Baptized into Christ at an early age, Bettye held her faith close to her heart as a devoted member of the Southside Church of Christ. Her faith guided her through life and inspired those around her.
On November 14, 2025, Bettye peacefully passed away at home following a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. She is preceded in death by her beloved parents and her 11 siblings, who welcomed her with open arms in heaven.
Bettye’s spirit lives on in her three devoted children: Rodney Newsom, CaSandra Neyland, and Christopher Newsom, all of Memphis, TN. She is also survived by her cherished brother, Charles (Odessa) Johnson of Springfield, IL; five adoring grandchildren; seven precious great-grandchildren; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Each of them carries a piece of her heart and the memories of the joy she brought into their lives.
As we honor Bettye’s remarkable life, we remember her laughter, her kindness, and the love she shared so generously. Her spirit will forever inspire us, and her memory will remain a guiding light in our hearts.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Psalms 23
Celebration of Life
Tuesday, November 18, 2025 2:00 P.M.
Historic Elmwood Cemetery
824 S. Dudley Street Memphis, Tennessee
Opening Prayer......................................................................................Cleotha Nash
Scripture Readings............................................................................Edward Sims, Jr.
Hymn.................................................................................................Rodney Newsom
~Expressions of Love~
(Respectfully, 2-3 People, Two Minutes Please) Family & Friends
Words of Comfort....................................................................................Eddie Harris
Committal...............................................................................................Eddie Harris
Tribute...................................................................Harrison’s Memorial Chapel, Inc.
Closing Prayer........................................................................................Eric Ragland
Afterglow
I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun; Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.
The family of Bettye Jean Brazzell is greatly appreciative of the many expressions of love and kindness that have been shown during our time of bereavement. We sincerly thank you for your comforting words, prayers, visits, telephone calls, flowers and cards. The Brazzell family offer a special ‘Thank You” for all the support that you have given during this time.
