Betty Whitaker Swanger

Betty Whitaker Swanger, 83, passed away Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024, at Hospice of Rutherford County surrounded by her family.

Mrs. Swanger was born in Cleveland County to the late James Max Whitaker and Celesta Belle Savannah Fraser Whitaker. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Lounette Davidson (Sam) and Helen Ledbetter (Dan); a sister in-law, Prue Whitaker (Roy); and her husband, Gary Gene Swanger.

Betty graduated from Mooresboro High School in 1959. She retired from Southern Bell in 1995 after working there for 32 years. She loved the Lord and was a faithful member of Long Shoals Baptist Church for many years. She loved spending time with her family and also had a love for shopping.

Mrs. Swanger is survived by her two sons, Gary Gene Swanger II and Mark Channing Swanger (Stephenie); three grandchildren, Andrea N. Greer (Roman), Ashley N. Smith (Andrew), and Avery M. Swanger; and two brothers, Roy Whitaker and David Whitaker (Burnette).

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, November 3rd at Long Shoals Baptist Church in Arden, with Reverend Roger Rearden officiating. Burial will follow at Roberts Memorial Park in Arden. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Long Shoals Baptist Church.

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.