Betty Jean Lanham Overton VanDorn Reynolds, daughter of Howard R. Lanham and Deela L. Lanham (Diedrich), passed away in her home on July 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and family. She was preceded in death by her husband, William M. VanDorn; her beloved grandson, Jeffrey C. Overton; and cherished great-granddaughter, Alexandria C. Fleming.
She is survived by her husband, best friend and loving, patient golf companion, Joseph A. Reynolds – a partner who brought light, companionship, and renewed joy into her later years. Their bond was a gift, filled with laughter, adventure, and quiet understanding that brought comfort to both of their lives.
Betty Jean was a proud and devoted mother to Richard C. Overton Jr. (Debbie), Denise L. Rayfield (Rick), and Michael A. Overton (Robin). She adored her grandchildren: Heather M. Fleming, Nicholas R. Overton (Christy), Douglas M. Rayfield (Chrissy), Daniel C. Rayfield (Katie), Samantha N. Overton, and Carly R. Overton. Her love extended to her great-grandchildren: Emma N Lawson, Jaxon L. Rayfield, Cameron E. Rayfield, Lane L. Overton, and Adler C. Rayfield.
She also considered herself incredibly fortunate to become a stepmother and beloved “bonus Grandma and great-Grandma” to the Reynolds family — an unexpected blessing that brought even more love, laughter, and meaning to her life.
Betty Jean will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, her deep devotion to family, and the joy she found in every shared meal, card game, round of golf, and quiet moment with those she loved.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Kutis Funeral Home on Lemay Ferry Road. The funeral service will follow on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., also at Kutis. In lieu of flowers, donations in Betty Jean’s memory may be made to the American Lung Association.