Obituary - Betty Blakey Harlan

Betty Blakey Harlan, of Richmond, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband and childhood sweetheart, James Clarke (Buddy) Harlan.  Betty is survived by her son, Jim Harlan, daughter Sally Bryson, son-in-law Jay Bryson, and grandchildren, Madeline and John Clarke Bryson.

Betty was born in Charlotteville, Virginia on December 15, 1928, to Grover Cleveland and Daisy Smith Blakey.  She attended Hollins College, where she made life-long friends.  After two years, she returned to Charlottesville to attend and graduate from “The University” of Virginia.  After college, Betty worked at the Bureau of Public Administration in Charlottesville until she and Buddy were married and moved to Richmond.  She then worked as an assistant to the auditor at The Virginia Trust Company until Jim’s birth.  

Betty was passionate about community, dedicating time to First Presbyterian Church as an Elder, Circle leader, and eager volunteer wherever she was needed.  She was a member the Thomas Jefferson Garden Club, The Woman’s Club, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts as well as many local and national historical associations.  Betty and Buddy especially enjoyed their many years of volunteering at The Shepherd’s Center of Richmond.  They loved to travel and documented their trips with too many slides to count.  Betty was a stamp collector, puzzle worker, loved covered bridges, and was known for her holiday village displays at Cedarfield.   A wonderful cook, Betty was famous for her fried chicken, pancakes, cheese straws, and 1-2-3-4 cake.   Nothing was too much trouble for her, especially when it involved her children and grandchildren.  

As everyone knew, Betty was an avid UVA football and basketball fan, she never missed a game.  She enjoyed her final years at Cedarfield where she made many new friends.  The family is so grateful to her helpers, Janice, Cassandra, and Rocio for their care over the years, as well as all the Assisted Living and Healthcare nurses, therapists, doctors, chaplains, and all the staff at Cedarfield, who took such good care of her in her final years.

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church Richmond on December 10th at 2pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to First Presbyterian Church at 4602 Cary St Rd. Richmond, VA 23226. Donations can also be received online at fpcrichmond.org/give. Please be sure to note IMO Betty B. Harlan in the memo field.