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 Betty Louise Dent Bland was born in 1932 in Columbia, SC to parents Harper A. and Elise Herron Dent. She graduated from Columbia High School, then attended Erskine College in Due West, SC. In 1955 she graduated from Erskine with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Bible Studies.
After marrying Rev. Edward (Eddie) Bland, Betty Lou shared the challenge of developing a new church congregation at Allen Hills ARP Church in Charlotte, NC. In 1964 they relocated to Newberry ARP church in Newberry, SC. Betty Lou then taught elementary school for 17 years in the Newberry County School system, instilling a love of education in countless children. Betty Lou loved the arts, which was evident as she studied painters, enjoyed exhibits, and created her own works of art through painting, sketching and making jewelry. Her creative talents excelled also in crafting. She extended her cultural appreciation with the enjoyment of listening to many varieties of music, taking photographs, reading novels, and writing poetry. Showing a respect for nature, she enjoyed traveling around the country in a small pop-up camper with her family. Betty Lou was predeceased by her husband Eddie Bland. She is survived by daughters Trudy Brewington of Newberry and Gwen Lawrence of Duluth GA, son-in-law Rob Lawrence, and grandchildren Will, Addie, Meredith, and LeeAnn. A family graveside service was held Saturday, August 15, 2020 at Newberry Memorial Gardens by the Rev. Seth Yi and the Rev. Dr. Timothy Erskine. In lieu of flowers, memorials maybe made to the charity of your choice, in Betty Lou’s honor. |