Betty Jean Merritt - Cremation Society of Virginia

Betty Jean Merritt

April 21, 1935 - March 24, 2020

Betty Jean Plyler Barlow Merritt, 84, passed away March 24, 2020 in Norfolk, Va. in the loving arms of her husband, Bud Merritt. Betty was born in San Antonio, TX on April 21, 1935.

Betty married her first love Garland Barlow until his passing in 1976 and her second love and forever companion, Bud Merritt in 1985. Betty worked selflessly in and out of the home, retiring from the City of Va. Beach Social Services after serving over 20 years. Betty was a singer, painter, dancer and a general ‘force of nature’. She knew no strangers and loved unconditionally with a compassion in her heart for everyone. She will always be remembered for her smile, laughter and the love she had for her husband, family and friends. She would always say, “I am so blessed.” and yet, it is we who were blessed by her presence.

Betty was predeceased by her parents Theodore Plyler and Pearl White, her late husband Garland Barlow and her daughter in-law Sharon Barlow.

Betty is survived by her Step Mother Ella; brother Douglas (Beth); sisters Georgie (Patrick), Teddi (Bob) and Carolyn; sons Michael (Maureen), Kevin, Paul and Robert; Grandchildren Elizabeth (Aaron), Christopher and Cole, Lillian Sky, Cecelia ; Great Grandchildren Andrew, Logan, Isaac; countless number of nieces, nephews and dearest friends.

The family, due to safety precautions related to the COVID-19 virus, has decided that there will not be an immediate service for Betty’s countless family and friends. Rather, there will be announced later at a safer time, a Celebration of Betty’s Life. In this way we can all safely gather in this wonderful woman’s name.

We also ask that everyone consider making a donation to your favorite charity in lieu of flowers. Betty always supported the Wounded Warriors and the Children’s Hospital of the Kings Daughters.

Cremation Society of Virginia

Light a candle Light a candle

Flowers & Gifts

Arrangements starting at $35

Plant a Tree

Betty Jean Plyler Barlow Merritt, 84, passed away March 24, 2020 in Norfolk, Va. in the loving arms of her husband, Bud Merritt. Betty was born in San Antonio, TX on April 21, 1935. Betty married her first love Garland Barlow until his passing in 1976 and her second love and forever companion, Bud Merritt…

See Condolences

Bud, I send my prayers to you and all family members. I pray Jesus heals your hearts and gives you all strength during this difficult time and to always be with you all. Brian

Micheal we are so sorry to hear of your Mothers passing. Please know you all are in our Thoughts and Prayers. Pam and Scott

I am so sorry to Hear of your Wife's passing. Please know you and your family are in our Thoughts and Prayers,

Bud – I am so sorry to hear of Betty’s passing. I know this will leave a huge hole in your life. Please know you are in my prayers. Your cousin Carol

Buddy I am so sorry for you and your family's loss may she rest in peace

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I have known Betty Jean all my life. I have fond memories of her. We lived a few houses from her. I grew up with Michael and Kevin. Those were good times. Betty would never let me forget the time Mike and I had a fight with flower in her kitchen. She was very kind and considerate, not to forget patient and forgiving. Betty would always kid with my father about each other’s age. Lots of love and memories. God bless you Betty Jean and thank you for the fond memories. You were a huge part of my childhood. Love you always!

Dear bud Michael and Kevin, I am so sorry to learn of your mothers passing and bud your wife’s passing. I have nobody for a very long time

Bud and family. My condolences to you all. Betty was the most fun person to work with, always counted on her to get the 12 Days of Christmas performance going at all our DSS holiday parties. She was loving and caring. Knew her for many years. Love to all.

Sharon, Richy, Diana and I are so saddened by your loss. We all have so many fond memories of Betty. Most especially of all, the great parties and Christmas’s we spent together singing carols. She had a book of them. Betty was probably the single most loving, caring woman I’ve known. She will be missed and will hold a place in our hearts forever.

My heart goes out to the family. Betty was the nicest lady! Mike & Kevin, you were there for me when I lost Eddie and I want to be there for you and your family. Please let me know if I can do anything.

Dear Bud, Michael and Kevin and family. Oh how we loved our sweet Betty. She was an amazing woman and we have such find memories of her and our families growing up. Our heartfelt condolences to all of you during this time. We love you and will be praying for God's richest blessings to you all.

Bud, Karen and I send our most heartfelt condolences in this time of anguish. May God embrace you all in this time of sorrow.

To Bud and family: I’m so sorry for your loss. Betty was always full of spunk and ready to help. I had the pleasure of working with her for many years ( even back in the old building), problem solving and sharing many laughs together. She will always be fondly remembered.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.