Bettye Jane Thomas Crumbly, age 98 of Scottsboro, passed away on February 1, 2026. A graveside service was held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 from the Cedar Hill Cemetery. Rev. Shandy Dill officiated.
Ms. Crumbly is survived by her children, Thomas “Tommy” Crumbly, Martha Nixon (Tommy) Shelton; grandchildren, Katie Crumbly (Tim) Burke, Toby (April) Crumbly, Stephanie White (Joey) Hinkle, Shannon Nixon (Jeremy) Kilpatrick, Ashley Nixon Ransom; as well as several great grandchildren; in home caregivers, who provided excellent care, Marcella Pendergrass, Queen Humphrey, Sandy Culver and Irene Paradise.
Ms. Crumbly was preceded in death by her daughters, Betty Nanette Crumbly and Florence Elaine White; parents, Bentley and Zelma Thomas; brothers, Tim Thomas and William Thomas; sisters, Mary Nell Shelton, Ruth Blythe and Ruby Butler.
She retired from the Scottsboro City Board of Education in 1989 after 23 years of dedicated service. Even in retirement, she continued to volunteer and help wherever she was needed, never seeking recognition, only opportunities to serve.
Ms. Crumbly was a loyal, humble Christian who loved the Lord and lived her faith daily through service to others.
She loved her family fiercely, cherished her friends and church family, and had a servant’s heart that showed in everything she did.
She was well known throughout the community and could often be seen walking through downtown Scottsboro or visiting friends in nursing homes every weekend, always offering encouragement, kindness, and a listening ear.
Ms. Crumbly’s legacy is one of faith, kindness, humility, and service. Her life was a testimony of loving God and loving people well, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
