Betty Lou Brittman

Betty Lou Brittman, age 88, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025. She was born on May 7, 1937, in Lowmoor, Virginia, to the late John Henry Blakey and Fannie Lucille Spinner Blakey, and grew up in Covington, Virginia, as one of twelve siblings. Betty attended Jeter Watson Public School, persevering through the challenges of segregation—experiences that shaped her enduring strength, unwavering determination, and deep compassion. Her journey took her to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and later to Columbus, Ohio, where she built a life rooted in family, faith, and service.

Betty began her professional career at Lazarus Department Store in Downtown Columbus, where her warm personality and keen sense of style made a lasting impression on customers and colleagues alike. On November 13, 1978, she began a new chapter with OhioHealth Grant Medical Center as an Environmental Services Technician. For 25 years, she served faithfully, retiring on September 19, 2003. Known for her dedication, professionalism, and a smile that could light up any hallway, she touched the lives of patients and staff alike.

A devoted and faithful servant of Jehovah, Betty was a dependable sister in faith, a loving wife, a nurturing mother, and a proud grandmother. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: working crossword puzzles, cooking for her family, shopping for hidden treasures, attending lively family gatherings, and cherishing every moment with her grandchildren. She was a lifelong fan of soul and R&B music, with Al Green, Luther Vandross, and Marvin Gaye always close to her heart. A spirited supporter of University of Michigan football, she took great delight in friendly family rivalries during game season.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, John Henry Blakey and Fannie Lucille Spinner Blakey; her sisters Mildred Hutchinson, Shirley Topsail, Ruth Harmon, and Mary Ola’ Barber; and her brothers Louis Blakey and William Blakey. She is survived by her beloved husband of 50 years, Donald Brittman; her son, Tony (Juanita) Townsel; her daughter, Donita B. Brittman; and seven cherished grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: sisters Virginia Clark, Daisy Bates, and Peggy Bozman; and brothers Simon Blakey and John Thomas Blakey. She leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in all who knew her

Private Family Viewing will be held from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Public Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025 from 10:00 am - 11:00 am with a Funeral Service immediately following at Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Service, 1370 East Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43205. Burial will process to Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

To leave a message of condolence please visit her Guest Book.