Betty Williamson

Betty Lou Williamson (nee Gardner) died September 25, 2024 in Augusta, Georgia. She was 88 and suffered from several chronic illnesses. 

Betty was born in Wilmington, Delaware on November 26, 1935 to George and Emma Gardner. She graduated from Henry C. Conrad High School, where she played basketball, co-edited the yearbook, and was a Girls State delegate. She majored in elementary education at the University of Delaware, graduating in 1957. She taught in elementary schools in Wilmington and Augusta over the course of her teaching career, and was admired for her pleasant and meticulous manner. She married David A. Skeel, an Air Force physician, in 1957. Together they had three children: Judy, David, and Michael. 

Despite having grown up in one place, Betty experienced cultures of all kinds as the family lived variously in New Mexico, Maryland, California, Michigan, the Philippines, and Georgia. On September 23, 1983, she married Charles Williamson III. They enjoyed traveling and were longtime members of St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, where Betty taught Sunday School, served on the vestry, and attended Bible study. Betty played bridge, watched football and tennis, and loved to read, especially classics and historical fiction. She was a member of the same book club for more than two decades. 

She was predeceased by her brother, George Gardner III, and her husband. Survivors include her children: Judy Skeel (Steve Byrne), David Skeel, Jr. (Sharon), Michael Skeel (Claire) and stepson Charles Williamson IV (Joy); grandchildren: Kristen, Emily, Carter, and Stephen Skeel, Krystin and Taylor Williamson; great-grandchildren: Calvin, Thomas, and Willa Skeel.

The family is grateful for the thoughtfulness and care of Steve Byrne, the Make Your Day caregivers and Betty’s friend and neighbor Barbara Sikes. 

 Donations in her memory may be made to St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, 3321 Wheeler Road, Augusta, Georgia, 30909. 

The Memorial Service will be held at St. Augustine Episcopal Church on Sunday October 20, 2024 at 2:30pm.