Bettie Louise Pitts Carlton Crudup was born on November 19, 1929, in Norfolk, Virginia. She accepted Christ at an early age and remained a devoted member of St. John's Baptist Church in Arlington, Virginia, until her passing.

Bettie was married to Willie James Carlton, Sr. and from their union came two children: the late Bridget Carlton Harden and Willie James Carlton, Jr. Tragically, Willie Sr. passed away unexpectedly on August 17, 1968. After raising her children, Bettie relocated to Fairfax, Virginia, and later married Elbert Crudup. They shared many years together until his passing.

Bettie graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk, Virgina in 1948 and went on to attend nursing school, earning her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification. She began her career at Portsmouth Naval Hospital, where she worked as a surgical nurse.

Later, she joined what was then known as the National Naval Medical Center (now Walter Reed National Military Medical Center) in Bethesda, Maryland. During her tenure there, Bettie managed the Prenatal Diagnostic Center, where she provided compassionate care to countless high-risk obstetric patients and their families. Known for her gentle demeanor and personal touch, Bettie left a lasting impression on all those she served. She retired after an extraordinary 50 years of dedicated service.

Bettie was known for her generosity, warmth, and willingness to help others. She embraced life fully, enjoying international travel, shopping, church activities, and spending cherished time with family and friends.

On the evening of April 17, 2025, Bettie entered into eternal peace. She leaves behind her loving son, Willie James Carlton, Jr., along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church Berkely, 706 Berkley Avenue Ext, Norfolk, VA. The viewing will be on Friday, May 2, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, 500 Liberty Street, Chesapeake.

You can join the service livestream at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at: https://www.facebook.com/PretlowandSons