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Thompson Funeral Homes - Columbia

845 Leesburg Rd

Columbia, South Carolina

Betty Harrelson Obituary

Betty R. Harrelson, 83, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Betty was born and raised in Johnston, SC, to her late parents, Lewis and Viola Rhoden. She graduated from Johnston High School and later moved to Columbia, SC, where she began and completed her career with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. She was a longtime member of Shandon Baptist Church.

She is survived by her sons F. Scott Harrelson (Natalie) and Russell Harrelson, as well as her three grandchildren: Ryan, Reed, and Riley Harrelson. She is also survived by her sister Josie (Joe) Feliciano of West Columbia. Betty was predeceased by her sister Mary (Ed) Ballington, her brother Ebbie (Becky) Rhoden, and her longtime special friend and companion, Aubrey Gilmore.

Friends are invited to visit on Tuesday, March 10, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at Thompson Funeral Home on Leesburg Road. A graveside service will follow at Serenity Gardens, where Betty will be buried beside her late husband, Jim Harrelson.

She will be dearly missed by all who loved her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Three Oaks Hospice for their compassionate care, comfort, kindness during Betty's final days. Their support brought great peace and reassurance and will always be deeply appreciated.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Post and Courier - Columbia on Mar. 7, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
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3 Entries

Johnsie Smith

March 11, 2026

Betty Lou was a classmate of mine at Johnston Hjgh School. We reconnected when I moved to Lexington. I visited with her over the last 3 years. Even though she knew her condition was terminal, she had a great attitude and lived each day to the fullest. She loved a good joke and could share a few of her favorites. My last visit was on February
23rd. While it was obvious she was in her final days, she smiled, knew Edna and me, and responded to our comments. She loved you, Josie, and was so thankful to be with you in your home. Her boys and grandchildren were the joy of her life.
May God give all of you peace and comfort now and in the days ahead.

Elizabeth H. Pritchard

March 9, 2026

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of our beloved friend, Betty. She was easy to love and so much fun to be with. We had many good times together before she became ill.

Scott and Russell, my thoughts and love are with you. Also I know her three grandsons will miss her terribly. We all will all miss her.

Bonnie Bettis

March 7, 2026

I will miss Betty so much. She was so young at heart and always had the funniest sense of humor. I loved being around her and looked forward to our trips to Beaufort and Amelia Island. A good time was had by all. Betty when you find my mom in heaven don't y'all talk about me. I love you and thank you for being a part of my life.

Bonnie Bettis

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Funeral services provided by:

Thompson Funeral Homes - Columbia

845 Leesburg Rd, Columbia, SC 29209

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