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Obituaries
Bette Ann Croswell
Bette Ann Croswell, 86, of Virginia Beach, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Monday, September 18, 2023. She was born in Newport News to Bernard and Clara Gatewood on May 6, 1937. Bette Ann was a graduate of Warwick High School and co-owner of My Doll and Toy Shop in Hampton with her best friend, Bonnie Condrey. She enjoyed travel, scrapbooking, crafting, and making friends wherever she went. The monthly lunch gathering with her WHS classmates and friends was something she looked forward to and enjoyed very much. Her greatest joy in life was her family. She took great care in ensuring everyone knew she loved them very much and would do anything to help them. Bette Ann especially loved to have the whole family together. Holidays, birthdays, or any day of the week that ended in a “Y,” she wanted to get the entire family together.
Besides her parents, Bette Ann was predeceased by her husband and soul mate, Levon W. Croswell.
Left to cherish her memory are her sons, Michael Smith (Karen), Ronald Croswell, and Timothy Croswell; daughter, Karen Croswell; grandchildren, April (Tim); Amy (Miri); Abbie (Adam); Christopher; Jack (Jill); Sara; 7 great-grandchildren; sister, Randy Smith (Jody); brother, Bing Gatewood (Susan); many nephews, nieces, cousins, and her very loyal companion Riley.
Services are being held at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd. Newport News, VA. 23601. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, September 25, 2023, at 6 p.m. The funeral will be held on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at 2 p.m., followed by a procession to the graveside service.
12 Comments
To the family of Bette Ann: I wish to express my own sadness and send my condolences to each of you. Betty Ann was my roommate on a Mediterranean Cruise with our family. I enjoyed her kindness and generous spirit as we traveled…sharing lots of fun. I feel richer for knowing her. Our friendship continued throughout her life.
Bette Anne was a scrapbooking friend. I have fond memories of scrapbooking weekends in Virginia Beach with her. She always had a smile and was a friend to all. She loved her family and spoke of them lovingly.
I loved my cousin, Bette Ann, dearly. Her father and my mother were siblings. She was so sweet and funny. We laughed a lot when we talked about our family tree. I will miss her.
Grew up with her! She lived one street over from where.
i lived. Went from 1grade on with her! So sweet! She tried to teach me some of her crafts but I am hopeless when it comes to crafts! I will miss her!
Aunt Betty, I remember you as a small child. I always thought you were my favorite Aunt. I love in will solely miss. Your nephew Pat.
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Bette. I was her neighbor and she was one of the kindest persons I ever knew. She always had a smile on her face and she just made her feel good to be in her presence. I know she is now at peace with the love of her life Levon.
The members of The Exchange Club of Wythe send our heartfelt condolences to the family. We remember with fondness Betty’s kindness, generosity, and welcoming nature. We will greatly miss her.
Tim,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. May God grant you some peace and comfort in this period of grief.
Bette Anne, you will be best. Thank you for moving across the street and being a great neighbor. Will miss talking plants and sitting around just talking. I know you are with us everyday and will join me on my walks. Will miss you. Mary
Mike and family,
Aunt Bette Ann was such a sweet lady, always laughing and joking. My Mom (Aunt Doris) always said she and Aunt Bette Ann
had such good times together. Mike, I could always see your Mom’s eyes light up when your name was mentioned, she loved and adored you. I know you and your family will cherish your memories of the wonderful times with Aunt Bette Ann.
With Love,
Drew Smith Leigh
Bette was an amazing woman. She provided so much love to those around her. My condolences to her family and especially to her Granddaughter Abbie Gail whom she thought of has a daughter.
Dear Bette, I worked with her in the cashier’s cage at Montgomery Ward. She made every day at work a joy. We stayed in touch for years but when I moved from Hampton, we lost touch. I will always have sweet memories of you dear Bette.