Betty (Thames) Murray

Betty (Thames) Murray, 77, of Haines City, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on November 17, 1947, in Lumberton, North Carolina, to Eugene and Dolly (Edge) Thames, Betty lived a life rooted in faith, family, and love. She married Donald Layne, and together they raised two wonderful children who were her greatest joy.

Betty treasured simple moments—whether relaxing at the beach, enjoying family gatherings, or sharing movie nights with her grandchildren. She loved Jesus with her whole heart, and her faith was a guiding light for all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Theron Layne (Kim Carter) and Kathy (Ryan) Herren; her siblings, Bobby Thames, Shirley (Danny) Wojciehowski, Danny Thames, and Dennis Thames; her cherished grandchildren, Matthew, Cory, Haley, Holly, and Hamilton; and her great-grandchildren, Cambron, Atlas, and Aspen. She was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Dolly, and her brothers, Alvin, Ronald, Wayne, and Kenny.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 25, 2025, with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Ridge Funeral Home in Haines City, Florida. Betty will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery, with a reception to follow at Central Church of Christ in Haines City.

Betty meant everything to her family. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and she is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. While our hearts grieve, we rejoice in knowing she is now in the arms of Jesus.

The family would also like to extend their deepest gratitude to Marivel Pabon, Betty’s devoted caretaker, whose kindness and faith truly reflected the hands and feet of Jesus.