Betty Secrist McGowan, 81, of Buena Vista, Virginia went home to be with the Lord on September 10, 2018.

She passed away at Carilion Stonewall Jackson Hospital while surrounded by several loving members of her family.

Born the fourth child of Ernest and Audrey Secrist on July 30, 1937, she was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband of 60 years, Carl Edward McGowan; her daughter, Deborah Kay McGowan; a great-granddaughter, Jaden Paige Baker; brother, Richard "Buddy" Secrist and sisters, Nancy Weinerth, Loretta Griffith and Linda Hastings.

Betty is survived by two grandsons and their wives, Jason Carl Baker and wife, Hayley, of Fincastle, and Nathan Lee Baker and wife, Ashley, of Lexington; two great-grandsons, Dakota Tyler Baker and Durham Lee Baker; and a great-granddaughter, Faith Adalyn Baker. She is also survived by sister, Ernestine Malzeke, brother, William Secrist and wife, Jesse, Carlos Secrist and wife, Deborah, sister, Amanda O'Rear and husband, Ron, as well as many nieces, nephews, in-laws and other extended family members.

Betty was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Buena Vista. In her younger years, she and her husband Carl loved to dance. They were also long-time members of the AARP and loved to travel. Betty loved being surrounded by her family.

The family would like to thank Rockbridge Area Hospice and the many family members and friends who helped care for Betty during her illness. She was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Buena Vista on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends prior to the service at 10. Burial will follow in Green Hill Cemetery.

Services will be officiated by Bishop Hanson and arrangements will be made by Bolling, Grose and Lotts Funeral Home.