Betty Regis Wilharm Greenwood

Born July 14, 1929 to Joseph and Irene Wilharm of Thunderbolt Ga., Betty Wilharm Greenwood entered this world just as she left it, surrounded by love. As the eldest of seven children, she was a natural leader who learned early the importance of family, loyalty, hard work, and perseverance. Having been placed into this matriarchal role that she embraced whole heartedly, her love of caring for little ones began with her siblings and spanned four generations.

Suffering the loss of her husband at an early age, Betty faced hardship with grit and determination fiercer than many others of her generation. From rocking babies and singing lullabies, crocheting booties and blankets, sewing Christening gowns, or being in the kitchen, cooking for her family, she always devoted her time to caring for others. This tireless devotion was an inspiration to all who knew her.

She was, and will continue to be, the pillar of our family even though her time on earth is done. Her perseverance throughout life taught her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren the meaning of selflessness, courage, and generosity.

On January 22, 2021 Betty Wilharm Greenwood (age 91) left this worldly life for her heavenly home. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Harvey (Johnny) Greenwood, and her sister, Rosemary Atkinson. She is survived by her five siblings, Dot Zipperer, Joe (Mary Ann) Wilharm, Bobbie (Jack) Earle, Tom Wilharm, and Jim (Linda) Wilharm; three children, Julie (Kevin) Rahn, Guerry (Gloria) Greenwood and Joe (Christy) Greenwood; her 12 grandchildren, Trina (Pat) Lynch, Tony (Amy) Reagan, Guerry (Melissa) Reagan, Jenna (Justin) Patrick, Misty (Bo) Cannon, Nicholas Greenwood, Jennifer (Steven) Molpus, Jacqui Greenwood, Amy (Dale) Lovell, Gil Walls, Joey (Haley) Greenwood, and Cassidy (Brandon) Miller, 20 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Betty will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but through her life she fulfilled the words of Mother Theresa, "Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier." The world is a better place for her having been here. We will miss you Mama, Grandma, GiGi, Sister, Aunt, and cousin. Until we meet again.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home

Effingham Chapel

(912) 754-6421