In Memory

Betsy Cockerille - Class Of 1964

Betsy Adelaide Cockerille, 64, of Charlottesville, was delivered from her earthly body on Saturday, January 22, 2011, to go on to brighter adventures with her "Sonshine", Jesus, the Light of her World.

Betsy was born on April 17, 1946, in Staunton, Virginia, and grew up in Greenwood, Virginia. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Frank O'Neil and Virginia Eloise Henkel Cockerille; her brother, Charles "Chuck" Cockerille; and a nephew, Silas Wright Barnes III.

She is survived by her ex-husband, Robert Parker Swann; and their two sons, Parker O'Neil Swann and his son, Dustin Parker Swann; and Jason Andrew Swann and his wife, Karen, and their daughter, Kiana Eloise; four sisters, Eleanor "Bambi" Labiosa, Mary Margaret "Tinka" Martin, Laura Cockerille Giannini and her husband, Pete, Marcy King; a brother, John Paul Cockerille and his wife, Maryann; numerous nieces and nephews. She also wants to remember her "fifth sister" Susan Zongker and her husband, Randy.

Betsy's friends referred to her as "different, eccentric, the ultimate individualist, independent, resourceful, innovative, and creative". She had a photographer's eye and the gift of capturing the essence of an individual in candid moments on film. Betsy was most recognized by her colorful shopping stroller and yellow cane with its portable sign, "yield to pedestrian in crosswalk".

Betsy was involved in representing Crescent Halls' residents founding the "Crescent Halls Friendship Garden" from 2003 until 2004, and working with the Housing Authority and City Hall from 2006 until 2007 to fight heavy traffic through the "Crescent Hall Bypass".

Betsy thanks her very special friend and confidante, Edith Good, who was always dependable in helping her run errands. She will miss her cat, Smoky-S/Moocher and all his guardian angels at Old Dominion Animal Hospital, who love Smokey as much as Betsy did.

A memorial service will be held 1:30 p.m. Sunday, January 30, 2011, at New Beginnings Christian Community at Clark Elementary School Gymnasium. Pastor Liz Emrey is in charge of arrangements, 434-872-0800.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice of Piedmont, Home Instead, Meals on Wheels, Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad, the Univeristy of Virginia Cancer Center or the SPCA.

Published in the Daily Progress from January 28 to January 30, 2011

Share your memories, express your condolences and add photos in the Guest Book for Elizabeth Adelaide "Betsy" Cockerille.



 
  Post Comment

02/07/11 08:37 AM #1    

James Garrett White (1966)

One Christmas Eve she and her mom came to Good Shepherd Church, Hickory Hill where I was organist.  Betsy sang "He Shall Feed His Flock" from "Messiah" for us.  I have never heard it more beautifully sung, and I will always be grateful for her friendship.

 

Jim White


  Post Comment