Betty Gilliland

Betty Lou Gilliland, age 88, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who touched the lives of many with her kindness and unwavering love.

Betty was born on March 8, 1936, to John Harvey White and Pearl Modena White. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Lois Durham and Jean Myers; her brothers, Daniel White and Johnny White; her daughter, Patsy McAlister; and her son, Marty Gilliland.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Mary (Michael) Chapman; grandsons, Scotty Kane, Rick (Brandi) Kane, and Michael "Bucky" (Sierra) Chapman; granddaughters, Angela (Macey) Stephens, Brittany (Jonathan) Soultatos, and Darian Chapman; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Kayla Stephens, Madeline Stephens, Ansley Stoner, Kadence Stoner, Elijah Stephens, Paige Kane, Daxton Kane, Sailor Soultatos, and Anchor Soultatos.

A proud graduate of the Tennessee School for the Deaf in Knoxville, Betty was a dedicated member of the deaf community and built lifelong friendships within it. She was deeply devoted to her family, cherishing every moment spent with her loved ones. Her warmth, strength, and gentle spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

The family will have a visitation on Monday, March 10 from 11:00-1:00 at Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Garden. Interment will follow. 1150 South Dickerson Road, Goodlettsville TN 37072.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to organizations supporting the deaf community in her memory.

Betty’s love and legacy will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.