Elizabeth "Betty" DeLay Hegwood

Elizabeth "Betty" DeLay Hegwood, born on February 4, 1932, passed away on March 15, 2025. She lived a full life, treasured by her family and community.

Betty was born on February 4, 1932, in Jackson County, NC, daughter of the late William Toy DeLay and Fannie Lee Wilson DeLay. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, James Perry "Pete" Hegwood.

Betty graduated from Calhoun High School and built a successful career as an accountant for The Town and Casual Company and Mannington Mills. After retiring, she continued to work for Sam Thomas, demonstrating her commitment and work ethic throughout her life.

Betty devoted her life to serving her community. She and Pete were active in the Jaycees and later at the Calhoun Elks lodge, where she became the first female Exalted Ruler. She volunteered for the Sherrif’s Auxiliary, March of Dimes, Pilot Club, Friends of the Gem Theater, and other community groups. She was the long time President of the Cherokee Capital Fair Association. Her last role was President of the resident’s organization at the Fountain’s in Calhoun.

Known as “Grannybutter” to her three granddaughters, she has been an inspiration and role model on living with purpose and humility. Her family is proud and grateful for her life and will miss her warm grace, simple charm and unconditional love.

Betty is survived by her son, Barry Hegwood, and his wife Jerri; her grandchildren, Grace Elizabeth Hegwood and her husband Tucker Bartholomew, Lilly Lynn Hegwood, and Ellie Rose Hegwood; and her sister, Mildred DeLay Sanders. Along with several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to honor Betty’s memory during visitation at Thomas Funeral Home in Calhoun, GA, on March 22, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 PM with Reverend Scott Wilson officiating and with music provided by Carmen Green. There will be a celebration of life at the Calhoun Elks lodge immediately following the service. The family will have a private Burial Ceremony at Fain Cemetery.

Honorary Pallbearers are the Calhoun Elks Lodge and the Gordon County Sheriff's Auxiliary.

In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Betty may be made to the Elks Aidmore at https://elksaidmore.com/for-the-public/how-you-can-help/make-a-donation/ or by mail to Elks Aidmore, 2394 Morrison Road, Conyers GA 30094

Betty Hegwood will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her dedication to her work, and her active role in the community. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and service.

You may leave the family online condolences at www.thomasfuneralhomecalhoun.com

Thomas Funeral Home has proudly been entrusted with the care of Elizabeth “Betty” DeLay Hegwood.