of North Little Rock, AR

October 16, 1931 - March 9, 2026

The world became a little less bright, and heaven a lot more organized, with the passing of Betty Jo Graddy on March 9, 2026. Known affectionately to all who loved her simply as ''Auntie,'' she was a woman of fierce devotion and boundless maternal love. Betty Jo lived a life dedicated to the greater good of her family, her students, her church, and her community.

A Foundation of Faith and Family
Born on October 16, 1931, in Van Buren County, Arkansas, Betty Jo was the daughter of James and Vernie Gifford. As one of five siblings, she naturally stepped into the role of ''leader of the pack.'' Her childhood in rural Arkansas instilled in her a lifelong mission: the belief that working together for the common good was the highest calling.

Above all, Betty Jo loved the Lord. She lived according to God's Word in every facet of her life, from the stewardship of her finances to the unwavering devotion she showed her family. Her faith was not just a belief, but the very compass that guided her daily walk.
She is preceded in death by her beloved parents; her siblings, James, Jerry, Nellie, and Fran; and the love of her life, her husband Connie Graddy.

A Life of Adventure and Education
Betty Jo and Connie's marriage was a partnership of true companionship. Following Connie's career in the poultry industry, the pair embarked on adventures across the country, including a memorable chapter in Idaho, before eventually rooting themselves in Russellville, Arkansas.
In Russellville, Betty Jo found her second calling in the classroom. As an elementary school teacher for over 20 years, she didn't just teach lessons; she nurtured souls. She loved her school children as her own, a fact evidenced by the "treasures" that filled her home; Christmas gifts and handmade tokens from her students that she cherished and kept for all of these years.

A Heart for Nature and Nurture
When she wasn't in the classroom, Betty Jo could be found in her garden or watching the birds. She possessed a deep well of knowledge on both subjects and shared that endless knowledge with anyone willing to listen. Whether it was the secret to a blooming flower or identifying a visitor at the birdfeeder, "Auntie" was a lifelong teacher of the natural world.

While she was an extraordinarily devoted mother to her son, Joe B. Graddy, her "mothering" did not stop at her own front door. She was a mother figure to everyone she loved. To know Auntie was to be looked after, checked on, and profoundly loved.

Her Legacy
Betty Jo leaves behind a legacy of education, grace, and grit. She is survived by her son, Joe B. Graddy; her niece and dedicated caretaker, Lee Goff; and a host of many loving family members and friends who were blessed by her wisdom and kindness.

A visitation will be held at Roller-Owens Funeral Home in North Little Rock on Friday, March 13, at 10:00 a.m., with burial to follow at 12:30 p.m. at Colony Cemetery in Bee Branch.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Owens Funeral Home
5509 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
North Little Rock, AR  72116
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com