Betty Lou Jacobs

Resting in the Mountains 

Betty Lou Jacobs, age 72, returned to the embrace of the Mountain on December 5, 2024, passing peacefully at her home in Tracy City, TN, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late James Frederick “Fritz” Scharer and Joyce Nina (Cagle) Scharer. At a young age, Betty found her heart and home in the rugged beauty of Middle Tennessee. 

On the mountain, Betty was at home, crafting a life rich in love, community and nature’s gifts. A woman of strength, kindness and an iron will, she was unafraid to speak her truth. Honesty was a cornerstone of her character. Betty’s creative spirit found expression in the beauty of the natural world; whether riding through the woods, gathering flowers for carefully curated arrangements or envisioning a massive 2,500-pound stump as a centerpiece for her yard.

Betty made her passion into her profession, spending much of her life as a florist, sharing her artistry with all who encountered it. Her home was a haven, a welcoming place where neighbors, friends and family found an open door, a listening ear, and often a warm meal. Her porch, where she often sat enjoying what the weather offered, was a gathering spot filled with stories, laughter and connection.

Betty’s servant heart extended beyond her home. She was devoted to uplifting others, volunteering tirelessly and always looking out for the needs of her community. As a lifelong member of Christ Church Episcopal in Tracy City, she would prepare the church and parish house for service on Sundays. She cherished the peace found during her time alone in the beauty of the sanctuary. She was someone who appreciated life’s simple pleasures, savoring every moment with her sharp wit and infectious humor. Just as she cared for flowers, she cared for others by working as a sitter before retiring. She would caretake for those who could no longer care for themselves. A difficult job in and of itself, but one she had a heart for.

The Lord has called Betty home. Her memory now dances through the woods she loved so dearly. Listen to the wind and you may hear her whisper; look for her beauty in the trees; see her touch in an abandoned tree stump; feel her guidance in the earth beneath your feet.

Betty is a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, whose legacy of love, strength and service lives on in the memories of those who knew her. We carry her in our hearts, cherishing her laughter and wisdom, until the day we, too, are called home. 

Betty Lou Jacobs is survived by her children: Sam (Renee) Jacobs and Raelessa (Joey) Porter; Grandchildren: Madisen, Avin, and Quinn Porter and Cassidi Jones; great grandchildren: Clay Wayne and Charlotte Nolen; sister: Linda Mankin; brother: Eddie (Rhonda) Scharer; special nieces and nephews: Angie (Jeff) White, Schelby (Jared) Blair, Dylan (Taylor) Scharer, Jim and Tim (Sallie) Jacobs; great niece and nephew: Andrew White and Maggie (Taylor) Parmley.

The family will visit and receive friends on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia, TN in Blevins Hall from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life beginning at 1:00 PM. All are welcome.

The care of Ms. Betty Lou Jacobs and her family has been entrusted to the staff of William Funeral Home. To share words of comfort and condolences, please visit www.williamsfh.com