Gilbert, WV – Betty Louise (Harmon) Browning, a beloved resident of Gilbert, WV, passed away on Monday, August 19, 2024, at the age of 84. Her passing occurred at Logan Regional Medical Center, leaving a deep void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the wider community.
Betty was born on June 11, 1940, in Mallory, WV, to the late William “Bill” and Pearl (Bowman) Harmon. Throughout her life, she was known for her kind and gentle nature, which touched everyone she met. Betty was preceded in death by her husband, James L. Browning; her son, William David Lester; her sisters, Billie Paynter and Virginia Laseff; her brother, Homer Harmon; and her grandson, William David “Dink” Lester, Jr.
A retired store manager, Betty enjoyed a fulfilling career in retail, where she made many lasting friendships. Outside of work, she found joy in simple pleasures, such as working with flowers, shopping, solving word puzzles, and spending time at the beach. Betty was also an active member of the Bruno Church of God, where she cherished her time with her church family.
Betty is survived by her daughters, Dreama Williamson of Verner, WV, and Deborah Buchanan of Williamson, WV; her sons, Leslie Lester and Jeremy Dale Browning, both of Verner, WV; as well as her stepsons, James Larkin Browning, Jr., and DeWayne Browning, both of Ohio. She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her best friends, Alice Williamson and Shirley Riffe.
The community will have the opportunity to pay their respects on Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 12:00 to 1:00 pm at Mounts Funeral Home. The funeral service, officiated by Pastor Roger Frye, will follow at 1:00 pm, with Betty being laid to rest in the Browning-Dye Cemetery in Verner, WV.
Reflecting on her passing, Ray Toler shared on Facebook, "Betty Louise (Harmon) Browning was a woman of immense kindness and warmth. Her smile and gentle heart will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her."
Betty’s passing has left a profound impact on her community, and her memory will continue to be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her.