Betty Jane Brittan Crowley passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, in Suffolk, Virginia, at the age of 88. Born on January 20, 1938, in Newport News, Virginia, she lived a life full of love, dedication, and service to her family and community.

Betty was the cherished daughter of the late Giles Wilbur Brittan and Carrie Castle Edwards Brittan. She grew up with a passion for knowledge and a heart for helping others, which she carried throughout her life. As a young woman, she found her calling as a Civil Service Employee retiring after 35 years as a procurement analyst for NASA Langley. Her talents earned her several Outstanding Performance awards for her dedication and expertise. After retirement she found satisfaction working for and consulting with several area small businesses desiring to do business with the federal government.

Beyond her professional achievements, Betty was known for her vibrant spirit and numerous interests. She loved her animals starting with her beloved Ching. This followed by 35 years of Shih Tzus, Redford her peak Persian and other cats that adopted her. She delighted in gardening, cooking, and baking, and took great joy in designing and overseeing the construction of her home, creating a warm and welcoming environment for all who visited. She loved her music too. Her music was the "good music" from the 60's. She liked rock 'n' roll, R&B, soul, and country. Whenever one of her preferred artists came to town we did family concert time where she bought the tickets and the family enjoyed the show. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially her beloved grandchildren, who brought immense happiness to her life.

Betty was committed to her community and believed strongly in civic participation. She became a foster parent and later served as a Rape Victim Support Worker Volunteer while living in Hampton. After moving to Suffolk, she decided to join the Suffolk Democratic Committee to make a difference. Her legacy of caring and service is shared by those she leaves behind.

Betty is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Jackson O'Dell Crowley; her devoted daughters, Holly Lee Milteer, and Kimberly Blanchard Hamlett and husband, Don; her treasured grandchildren, Zachary Brittan Lamb, Rachel Lee Kennedy and husband, Kris, and James McNeill Lamb and wife, Sarah; and her dear great-grandchildren, Elsie Elizabeth Lamb and Avalee Brittan Lamb. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends, who will continue to celebrate her life and cherish her memory.

In keeping with her wishes, a celebration of life service will be held at a later date, allowing family and friends to gather and honor her remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Suffolk Democratic Committee, P.O. Box 951, Suffolk, VA 23435 reflecting her lifelong commitment to the causes she held dear.

Betty Jane Brittan Crowley touched the lives of many and leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and grace. She will be remembered with affection and admiration by all who knew her.