Bettye S. Blay

Bettye Sue Blay, a beloved mother, grandmother, and Missions Associate at ACU, has passed away at the age of 97. Born in Milan, TN, on April 4, 1927, Bettye dedicated her life to service and education, leaving an indelible mark on her family and community.

She is survived by her loving children, Merri Lynn Rideout, Danny Blay (Kathy Blay), and Jim Blay (LuAnn Blay), as well as her cherished grandchildren Casie Feller (Eric Feller), Kelly Blay (Melinda Blay), Jay Blay, Kaely Tippen (Will Tippen), Kara Collins (Chris Collins), and Craig Rideout (JoDee Rideout), great-grandchildren Dillon and Jaden Hardt, Aubrey, Gabriella and McKenzie Blay, Lucy Jane, Samuel and Henry Tippen, Branson and Brooklyn Werner and Adilyn, Audrey and Calan Rideout.  Preceding Bettye in death were her parents, sisters Mildred Shepherd, Mary Hayes, Ann Hill and Evie Clovis, brothers J.W. Roberts, R.L. Roberts and Bill Roberts as well as a son in law, Kent Rideout and two-great grandchildren Cade and Caleb Rideout.

A woman of great faith, Bettye's impact reverberates through the higher education sector and beyond. Her commitment to missions work touched countless lives and her legacy will continue to inspire.

A family graveside service to celebrate Bettye's life will be held at Buffalo Gap Cemetery on April 11, 2024. The ceremony will be a commemoration of her vibrant spirit and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to a charity of your choice in Bettye's honor. Although we grieve our loss, we are grateful for the remarkable life of Bettye Sue Blay and we celebrate the love and joy she shared with all who knew her.