Betty Jo Weigel (Ivester), lovingly known to family and friends as Betty, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, at the age of 84. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Betty's life on Monday, July 27, 2026, at Ford Stewart Funeral Home, 2047 GA-138, Jonesboro. GA 30281. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m., with a memorial service with Father Paul beginning at 1130. Graveside services will be held at 12:30 at Stockbridge City Cemetery, 4380 North Henry Boulevard, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281. Born on December 24, 1941, in Lakemont, Georgia, Betty was the cherished daughter of Anna Lee Brown and John Ivester. She lived a life rooted in faith, family, hard work, and love, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear.
Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Benhard "Buddy" Weigel; her son, Robert D. Townsend Sr.; her brothers, Roy Ivester, J.D. Ivester, and Johnny Ivester; and her sisters, Eva Taylor and Ruby Trevor. She is lovingly remembered by her son, Steven and wife, Amanda Cannon; her daughter-in-law, Guadalupe Townsend, whose devoted love, compassion, and faithful care brought Betty comfort and dignity throughout her later years; Theresa Townsend who she cherished like a daughter; her step-children Kenneth Weigel, Michael and wife, Jill Weigel, Kathy Weigel and life partner Karen Plantz; and her grandchildren: Steven, Drew, Dylan, and Ben Cannon, Robert Townsend Jr., Sherri England, Juliano and Dorian Townsend and Kayla Weigel. She was also the proud great-grandmother of 14 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy. Betty was a faithful member of Saint Philip Benizi Catholic Church, where her faith remained a constant source of strength and comfort throughout her life. She retired from the Clayton County Bus Barn after many years of dedicated service, making lasting friendships and touching countless lives along the way. Those who knew Betty knew she had a wonderful sense of humor and wasn't afraid to tell you exactly what she thought. She could make you laugh when you least expected it, and if she picked on you a little, it usually meant she loved you. She believed in hard work, family, good conversations, and making sure everyone who entered her home felt welcomed. She delighted in gatherings around the table, treasured every visit from her children and grandchildren, and found endless happiness in watching her family continue to grow. Her home was always a place where love was shared freely, stories were told often, and cherished memories were made. Her love was steady, her heart was generous, and her presence made every family gathering brighter. Though our hearts are heavy with her passing, we find comfort in remembering the laughter she shared, the lessons she taught, and the countless memories she leaves behind. We find peace knowing that Betty's steadfast faith has carried her home to the loving embrace of the Lord, and her example will continue to guide those who loved her.
While Betty will be deeply missed, her love, laughter, unwavering faith, and the many stories she leaves behind will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. May she rest in the eternal peace of God's loving embrace.