Mother Betty Mae McClurkin was born, on November 12, 1937, to the late Areulior Dogan Thompson and the late James Thompson, in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She received her education through the Spartanburg County School System and was a proud 1955 graduate of Carver High School.

Betty worked tirelessly in food service, beginning her career at Wade's Restaurant and later joining the team at The Beacon Drive-In, from which she eventually retired.

Affectionately known as a "village mother," she was revered and respected by all who knew her. She embodied the true essence of motherhood being loving, kind, and nurturing. Her gentle spirit and warmth made her a beloved figure in the community. Betty was also an incredible cook, and her kitchen was a place of comfort and joy for many.

She enjoyed dining out, traveling, and relaxing while watching television. Some of her favorite shows included Everybody Loves Raymond, The Young and the Restless, The Bold and the Beautiful, and Good Times. She was also a dedicated sports fan, especially fond of football and basketball, and a proud supporter of the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Mother Betty was a foundational member of Bountiful Blessings Church, where she served faithfully and honorably as the "Church Mother". She also previously served in the Kitchen Ministry and on the Pastor's Aide Committee.

She was preceded in death, along with her parents, by her husband, Willie Robert McClurkin, Sr.; siblings, James Thompson, Henry Thompson, Benny Thompson, Hattie Thompson, Elizabeth Robinson , and Annie L. Gibson; and grandsons, Lesabre J. Thompson, reared in the home, and TyJae McClurkin.

Her life, love and legacy will be treasured by her sons, Darrell (Mona) Thompson of Dallas, TX, Willie McClurkin, Jr. and Timothy McClurkin both of Spartanburg, SC; daughters, Sandra (Jimmy) Eke and Rheba (Wayne) Shands both of Spartanburg, SC and Areulior (William Norman) McClurkin of Inman, SC; grandchildren, April Thompson, Lakia Norman, Shatera McClurkin, Simone (Allen) Anderson, Desmond (Christina) Shands, LaComa Luehrman, LaCarlton (Paris) Norman, Timberly McClurkin, Amaysha Brewer, Tyonia McClurkin, Timothy McClurkin, Jr., Timareon McClurkin, Kamareon McClurkin, LaSabre Rogers, and John Fowler; sixteen great grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; god daughters, Rose Geter, Vivian Whiteside, Michelle Trammell, and Beverly Rogers; sisters-in-law, Mary M. Hinton of Detroit, MI and Patricia Davis of Rock Hill, SC; brothers-in-law, Harry McClurkin of Rock Hill, SC and Charles McClurkin of Chester, SC; and a host nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Mother Betty transitioned peacefully at her home on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Her departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of family, friends, and the countless lives she touched with her grace, wisdom, and unwavering faith. Though she has taken her final earthly rest, her legacy of love, service, and strength will echo for generations. Truly a matriarch has been called home, and Heaven has welcomed one of its finest.