Betsy Nelson Feltus

Published 10:20 am Thursday, January 9, 2025

Nov. 30, 1931 – Jan. 6, 2025

NATCHEZ – Betsy Nelson Feltus, 93, passed away peacefully at her home in Natchez, on Jan. 6, 2025, surrounded by family. Born in New Orleans, LA, on Nov. 30, 1931, she was the daughter of Bessie Cloy Nelson and Purvis Phillips Nelson.

After graduating from Natchez High School in 1949, Betsy furthered her education at Mississippi College for Women and the University of Southern Mississippi, where she was an active member of the Chi Omega sorority.

Betsy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William James Feltus III; her grandson, Peyton Oliver Feltus; and her brother, Purvis Edwin Nelson.

A lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church of Natchez, Betsy devoted much of her time to the church, serving in numerous roles, including moderator for the Women of the Church, Deacon, and Sunday School teacher. She was also a steadfast supporter of the church’s outreach and missionary programs. One of her most cherished contributions was the design and creation of the church’s memorial garden, a lasting testament to her dedication.

Gardening was more than a hobby – it was a passion for Betsy. She earned the title of Mississippi Master Gardener and was an active member of the Garden Club of America for over 50 years. Her contributions to the Garden Lovers of Natchez were recognized with the Club Appreciation Award, and in 1996, she received the Horticultural Achievement Award. She also served as the Horticulture and Conservation Chair of the Pilgrimage Garden Club of Natchez.

Betsy’s commitment to her community extended beyond gardening. From 1978 to 1980, she was an engaged member of the Mississippi State Republican Executive Committee, where she played an instrumental role in campaigning and fundraising for the Republican Party in Adams County.

Known affectionately as GranBetsy, she is survived by her children, William James Feltus IV, Peyton Randolph Feltus, Lane Smith Feltus (Kate), and Ginny Feltus Brewer (Charles); her grandchildren, William Feltus V, Eliza Feltus Medved (Jon Paul), Emma Hobson Feltus, Marshall Feltus Alexander (Joey), Hannah Feltus, Molly Feltus Langston (Dalton), Lucy Brewer, Charlotte Brewer, and McHenry Brewer.

Visitation will be held at Stratton Chapel at the First Presbyterian Church of Natchez on Saturday, Jan. 18, at 2 p.m., followed by a funeral service in the church sanctuary at 3 p.m. Friends and family are invited to join in a celebration of her life at a reception afterward at The Burn, 712 North Union Street.

In honor of her life and her unwavering faith, contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Natchez Memorial Garden. First Presbyterian Church. 400 State Street, Natchez, MS 39120.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at lairdfh.com.