BETTIE CHATMON

With profound love and cherished remembrance, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Bettie Chambers Chatmon, who passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026, at the age of 104. Bettie’s life spanned a remarkable century—marked by her enduring love for family, her unwavering dedication to education, and a legacy of compassion that touched everyone she encountered.

Bettie was born on March 28, 1922, a time when the world was still finding its way into a new era. From her early years, Bettie’s intellect, spirit, and kindness set her apart. She began her educational journey in Athens School District, a place where the seeds of her true calling as an educator took root. Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a belief in the transformative power of education, she continued her studies at Huston Tillotson College and later at the University of North Texas. Ascending ever higher in her pursuit of excellence, Bettie earned her Master of Science degree—an accomplishment of which she was especially proud.  Bettie was a proud member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.

In Dallas, Bettie found her professional home, serving as both educator and counselor within the Dallas Independent School District. Her classroom was a haven—her wisdom guided countless students, and her counsel offered hope and clarity to all who sought her insight. Colleagues and students alike remember her for the gentle firmness of her guidance, the steadiness of her listening ear, and her unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds.

Behind every lesson, Bettie’s warmth as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend illuminated her every presence. She shared a loving marriage with her late husband, Robert Chatmon. Their lives together were blessed and shaped by love, perseverance, and partnership. Their beloved son, Robert Henry Chatmon, Jr., preceded Bettie in passing, along with sisters Patricia Smallwood, Mary Charles Barker, Gloria Sanders, Frankie Mae Chambers, Maxine Chambers, and brothers Earl Chambers, Jr., Sylvester Chambers, and Bobby Chambers. Though these loved ones have gone before her, the depth of their bonds continued to echo through her days.

Bettie is survived by her devoted daughter, Marva Chatmon O’Bannon, who carries forward her mother’s light and son in law Don. Her legacy of kindness and strength also lives on in her grandchildren: Alex Locke, Paul Wright, Tyrone Locke, III, and Elder Fred Wilson, each of whom brought her enormous pride and joy. Bettie’s cherished sister Catherine Burton and brother Charles Chambers remain, as do many beloved nieces, nephews and a host of extended family members who all bear her imprint of generosity and love.

For those privileged to know Bettie, memories flood the heart—stories of her gentle laughter, the sparkle in her eye as she recounted family history, her faith in the promise of every student, and a quiet resilience that inspired those around her. Through every season of her long and full life, Bettie stood as a beacon of wisdom, love, and service.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Bettie’s honor on August 16, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Golden Gate Funeral Home-Dallas-ALLENE, located at 4155 S R. L. Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75224. All who were touched by her life are welcome to gather and remember a remarkable woman whose legacy will continue to guide and uplift her family, friends, and community.

Though Bettie Chatmon leaves this world, her powerful example and the love she shared remain, eternal and unbroken. In loving memory, we thank her for everything her life gave us, and pledge to carry her spirit in our hearts forever.