Betty Jean Friel

Betty Jean Wright Swanner Friel, 78 of Hartford, passed away Wednesday, April 23, 2014, at her home.

Betty was born Nov. 17, 1935, in Elkmont, Ala., the daughter of Nathan and Sarah (Adams) Wright. She was formerly employed with DuWells in Bangor. She was a talented writer and singer of country music and was just a generous and loving woman.

Betty was preceded in passing by her first husband, David Swanner; her second husband, Donald Friel; two sons: Steve Swanner and Eddie "Tootie" Swanner; her parents; a sister, Sarah Wright and a son-in-law, Jerry Jackson.

Betty is survived by three daughters: Peggy Swanner of Hartford, Angela Jackson of Dowagiac and Patsy (Donald) Farley of Bangor. She is also survived by six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; three sisters: Margaret Slinkard of Texas, Norma Wright of Florida and Ramona Payne of Michigan; two brothers: Nathan Wright of Michigan and Louie Wright of Alabama and a daughter-in-law, Debbie Swanner of Michigan.

The family will welcome friends from 6-7 p.m. Monday, April 28, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 7 p.m. Pastor Ernest Glasgow will officiate. Cremation will follow the service and Betty's ashes will be inurned in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Betty's name may be made to the family. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.