Betty Jean Hyder

Loving mother, grandmother, and educator, Betty Jean Hyder passed peacefully into Heaven August 13^th, 2023 in Hendersonville Tennessee. She was born to Ben and Thelma Buck on October 19^th, 1940. She is survived by brother Ben Buck of Elizabethton, daughter Billie Jean Overall (Robert Overall) of Hendersonville and Granddaughter Hannah Wallace (Pete Butler) of Nashville. Affectionately known as Nee Nee to her family, her presence will be missed beyond words. Though failing health took her from this world, her lovingkindness, generosity, and indomitable spirit will not be forgotten by her family, friends, and students.

Mrs. Hyder received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in art education from East Tennessee State University. Her professional honors, activities, and contributions are too numerous to list. A formal educator for almost 50 years, she positively impacted generations of Kingsport children (including her own), helping many discover their own talent and appreciation for all things art. Beginning at age 12, she taught generations of children about Christ in Sunday school, challenging them to explore Scripture and make it their own; a priceless legacy. She encouraged her daughter in all things Biblical and artistic, supporting every activity and encouraging her spiritual development. She blessed her granddaughter with love, humor, affection, and various shenanigans known only to the two of them… we will all be forever grateful for her unyielding investment into our lives.

A Quote from Mrs. Hyder:

“While I have enjoyed my own personal growth in my career, my greatest joy has been the children. To watch them absorb and internalize ideas and consequently generate their own creativity, has reflected to me that teaching is a privilege and at the same time an opportunity to observe the innate capacity human beings have, to bring their own fresh perspective to a challenge. The children have been my inspiration and confirmation that the soul will find a way to express itself, and for that I am grateful.  It has taught
me that art is an essential means of nurturing and encouraging the imagination and it’s my firm belief
that creativity is the essence of Godliness.”

A memorial gathering for Mrs. Hyder will take place at Big Spring Church of Christ 1106 Gap Creek Rd. Elizabethton, TN October 22^nd 2023. Receiving friends will be at 2PM and 4-6 PM folks will be invited to share their memories of Betty.*

In lieu of flowers, Betty requested that contributions be made to the Food for the Multitude Program, c/o Ben Buck, 2726 Bob Little Road, Elizabethton, TN 37643. Donations feed the hungry and send children in need to church camp. Thank you.

*Please note: the bridge on Gap Creek Road just before the church is currently impassable. Coming from Johnson City on Hwy 67/321 W: as you approach Elizabethton turn right on West G St, then turn right at the next light onto Mary Patton Highway/362/2377. Turn left on Jim Elliot Road to Gap Creek Road. Turn left and Big Spring church will be appx 2.6 miles on your left.