Betty Lou Hyde Ballard

Betty Lou Ballard, 85, of Jayess, passed away on Jan. 25, 2023, at Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg. Betty Lou was born Jan. 23, 1938, in Monticello to Henry Charles “Happy” and Isabel King Hyde.
A funeral service was held Jan. 27 at New Hope Baptist Church, followed by a graveside service at the church cemetery. Wilson Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Betty Lou was a dedicated member of New Hope Baptist Church. In her younger years, she worked as a seamstress for Kellwood and made many lifelong friends and memories there. She was a very giving and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Growing up with nine siblings, she had a large extended family, including many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly. Her life was centered around the Lord and spending time with her family and beloved puppy, GiGi. She was an amazing cook and loved to feed anyone who came to visit. She was known for her coconut cake, shrimp dip, tomato gravy and biscuits.
A visit with her was great for the soul. She made everyone around her feel special. She suffered with many health issues, but never lost her warmth, kindness, laughter, or love.
She is survived by her daughters, Karen Price (Roger) and Tammy Beard (Keith); grandchildren, Heather Harvey (Donnie), Heath Sistrunk (Amanda), Tyler Beard (Brandi), and Alex Ballard (David); great-grandchildren, Anne Claire Sistrunk, Drake Barton, Isabel Barton, Halle Claire Harvey, Tucker Harvey, Molly Mae Sistrunk, Price Sistrunk, Aidan McFarland, Bailey Lue Ballard, Rhett Beard, and Jak Beard; and one sister, Judy Smith. Also left to cherish her memory is a host of nieces, nephews, and great friends, including her caregiver, Sue Braswell.
Betty Lou was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Carey Ballard; her only son, Revis Ballard; brothers, Billy Hyde, Duell Hyde, Roy Hyde, Charlie Hyde, Luther Hyde, and Jerry Hyde; and sisters, Dorothy Carr and Lula Hedgepeth.