Betty Joe Appleton

Betty Joe Appleton, born March 3, 1938, passed away on March 10, 2026, at the age of 88. Surrounded by the family she had devoted her life to loving and caring for, she left behind a legacy of quiet strength, deep faith, and selfless devotion.

Born to Porter and Aulsie McGill, Betty spent her early years in Minor Hill, Tennessee, with her younger brother Ted. It was there she met the love of her life, Ralph Appleton. The two eloped when she was 18 and settled in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where they spent 55 cherished years together raising their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Retired from the Human Resources department at E.S. Robbins Corporation, Betty was known for her strong work ethic, yet her true calling remained her faith and family. A sweet and selfless woman, she found her greatest joy in nurturing those she loved and guiding them toward a relationship with Christ. She delighted in her rose garden, where she grew beautiful blooms that she lovingly gathered into bouquets for others. An avid reader and faithful student of the Bible, she also enjoyed cooking, sewing, and quiet moments swinging on her back porch. Above all, she treasured being present in the daily lives of her children and grandchildren, often hosting the great-grandchildren for overnights filled with love and care. After Ralph’s passing in 2011, she moved to Waynesboro, Tennessee, to be closer to her daughter Kim and her family.

Betty is survived by her daughters Kim Haggard and Pam Wesson, grandchildren Chad, Eric, and Andrew Zills, Tara Hollis, and Anna Beth Haggard, her brother Ted McGill, special niece Nikki South, and her much-loved in-laws. She cherished her ten great-grandchildren, great-niece, and great-nephew, all of whom will carry her memory in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Ralph Appleton, her sons Chris and Jeff Appleton, and her sons-in-law David Zills and Bob Haggard. Her life was rich with love and many tender moments, and she was deeply grateful for every one.