Betty Jean Durham

Betty J. Durham, born on May 18, 1944, in Newport News, Virginia, to the late William and Annie Mae Wright, peacefully passed away on August 5, 2024. 

A devoted woman of faith, Betty accepted Christ at an early age and was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church of Steelton. Her unwavering love for God was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her through countless acts of service, compassion, and joy.

Betty's life was marked by dedication and honor. She was a proud member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Order of the Golden Circle. With 20 years of honorable service in the U.S. Army Reserve, Betty achieved the rank of Master Sergeant.  After graduating from Bates High School in Annapolis, Maryland, she embarked on a distinguished career as an Equal Opportunity Specialist with the Federal Government Department of Defense Logistics Agency in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, retiring after an impressive 34 years of service.

To those who knew her, Betty will always be remembered as a vibrant soul—full of life, always smiling, and endlessly energetic. Her generous spirit touched everyone she encountered, and she was deeply loved for her warmth and kindness. Betty found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether shopping, traveling, or savoring her favorite Chicken and Shrimp Lo Mein. A passionate fan of the Baltimore Ravens, she also had a special love for cats, bright colors, ravens, and white roses.

Her favorite parting words, "I love you with a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck," will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved her.

Betty is now reunited in heaven with her cherished parents William Wright and Annie Mae Wright, her beloved husband Willie Durham, and her brother Franklin Ervin.

She leaves behind a loving family including her brothers MacArthur Wright and his wife Harriot, Fred Wright, Ralph Wright, John Wright, and Tyrone Wright and his wife Linda as well as her sister Nikkie Wright. Stepchildren Angela Durham, Dwayne Durham, and Willie Durham Jr. She also leaves her nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. Betty also leaves to cherish her memory, two aunts, Calethia Powell 100 years old, and Ortalia Ervin 103 years old as well as other relatives and dear friends.