Betty Jo Pybus passed away on September 9, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 90. She was born on November 4, 1935, in Madrid, Alabama, and lived a life marked by devotion to her family, steadfast friendships, and a warm spirit that touched many who knew her.
Betty Jo was the daughter of the late C. O. Odom and Allie B. Enfinger Odom. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry L. Pybus; her brothers, James Edward Odom, Ray Odom, and Wallace Odom; her sister, Elizabeth Fulford; and her daughter-in-law, Sue Pybus. She is survived by her son, Rodney Pybus; her daughters, Pam (Terry) Shelley and Janet (Stan) Casey; her brother, Kenneth (Betty) Odom; her grandchildren, Jason (Nicole) Shelley, April Shelley, Ashley (Dennis) Devaney, and Phillip (Jamie) Pybus; and her great-grandchildren, Nick, Landon, Austin, Alex, Cheyenne, Kelby, Jacob, and Harper. She also leaves behind several special nieces and nephews, along with cherished special friends Jan Reynolds, Sylvia Brannon, and Ouida Moye, and best friends Toby Fowler, Mary Cooper, and Judy Tiffany.
Betty Jo graduated from Cottonwood High School in 1954, an accomplishment that reflected the determination and pride she carried throughout her life. In her early years, she worked at Dothan Hosiery Mill, and later retired from General Electric after 27 years of dedicated service. Her strong work ethic and dependable nature were evident in every chapter of her life, and she was respected by those who had the privilege of working alongside her.
She was also an active member of Order of the Eastern Star Chapter #76, where she valued fellowship and the bonds of friendship and service. Betty Jo believed in showing up for others, and she carried herself with grace, kindness, and quiet strength. Her presence brought comfort and encouragement to family and friends alike, and she will be remembered for the loving and generous way she cared for those around her.
Betty Jo enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, especially fishing, sports, and racing. She was a devoted fan of the Atlanta Braves and Alabama Crimson Tide football, and she took great joy in following the teams she loved. Whether spending time with family, sharing stories with friends, or enjoying her favorite pastimes, she found happiness in the moments that brought people together.
Funeral services will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, September 12, 2026 from the chapel of Ward Wilson Funeral Home with Reverend Johnny Strickland officiating. Burial will follow in Memory Hill Cemetery with Ward Wilson Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until 11 AM, prior to the service at the funeral home.
Serving as active pallbearers will be Jason Shelley, Phillip Pybus, Greg Odom, Joe Odom, Ray Odom, and Dennis Devaney.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gentiva Hospice, 2431 W Main Street #1102, Dothan, AL 36301.
The family would like to thank Shelby Hutto, Ugo Nwosu, Kerri Cox, Chaplain Charles Goldsmith, and the remaining staff of Gentiva Hospice for the loving care and attention given to Betty Jo during her time with them.
