Betty Mae Harper

It is with profound sadness and gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Betty Mae Harper, who peacefully entered eternal rest on December 27, 2024. Born on July 9, 1941, in Suffolk, Virginia, she was the cherished daughter of the late Eddie Silver Sr. and Mae Silver Moore. Betty Mae was the eldest of seven children, two of whom—Henry and Jackie Silver—preceded her in death.

Betty Mae’s journey began in the Suffolk County Public School System, where she received her education and made lifelong friends with (Kathleen, Mildred and her cousin Deloise). She accepted Christ at an early age and carried her faith as a cornerstone of her life. In 1960, she met and married the late Benjamin Townsend, and the couple made their home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Their union brought the joy of two children, Benjamin and Benita Townsend.

In the mid-1960s, Betty Mae returned to Suffolk, Virginia, where she began working at General Electric. This marked the start of a strong work ethic and commitment to providing for her family. During this time, her family grew with the births of Derrick Silver and Tonya Townsend-Odom each bringing added love and light to her life.

Betty Mae was given the nickname ‘Fox” to commemorate her sassy foxy red hair. 

The 1970s ushered in a new chapter for Betty Mae. She married Ted Harper and relocated to Washington, D.C., where she gave birth to her youngest child, Janel Harper. She later embarked on a distinguished career with the National Gallery of Art. Her dedication and professionalism were evident in every task she undertook until her well-earned retirement in 2001.

Following her retirement, Betty Mae returned to her beloved Suffolk, Virginia, where she embraced her faith even more deeply. As a devoted member of the Gates of Heaven Church of God in Christ, she attended services regularly and actively participated in church activities, drawing strength from her spiritual community.

Betty Mae was a woman of grace, kindness, and humility who brought joy to everyone she encountered. Her neighbors in her small, close-knit community became an extension of her family. She cherished morning conversations with her next-door neighbors and found great joy in her weekly shopping excursions to Walmart. There, she became a familiar and beloved face, forming bonds with the staff, who always looked forward to her visits.

A woman of elegance and style, Betty Mae delighted in treating herself to regular salon appointments, where she ensured her signature gold hair spray became a hallmark of her appearance. She loved looking her best, which reflected her pride and zest for life.

After the death of her best friend Kathleen, Betty Mae made the decision in 2018 to relocate back to the Washington, DC area to be closer to her children. 

Betty Mae’s family was her greatest treasure, and her legacy lives on through them. She leaves behind five loving children: Benjamin (Delissia), Benita, Derrick, Tonya (Tracy), and Janel; four devoted siblings: Herbert Silver (Mamie), Eddie Silver Jr. (Patricia), Mattie Eley (Royal), and Dr. Sylvester Silver (Linda); 19 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She shared a special bond with her granddaughter Dinia, whom she lovingly raised as her own child. Whether it was through her gentle guidance, her warm embrace, or the countless life lessons she imparted, she was not just a grandmother but a steadfast mother figure. She also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, including her lifelong childhood friend, Mildred King. 

Betty Mae Harper was a beacon of love, strength, and faith. Her life was a testament to resilience, compassion, and devotion. She touched the hearts of many and leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

A public viewing will be held 5-7pm, Friday, January 10, 2025 in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held 12 Noon, Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Gates of Heaven C.O.G.I.C. She will be laid to rest in Carver Memorial Cemetery.