Betty Jean Blue's Obituary
At 7:45 AM (ET) on Monday Sept. 11, 1933 I entered this big wide world at Corning’s Birthing Center. Dr. McNamara attending. The proud parents were Jacob (Jake) and Eela Mae Purifoy Simmons of Corning, New York (Steuben County). On the third day after my birth, my maternal grandmother arrived by train to see the first baby born in the family in almost 20 years.
How did I get to Andalusia, Alabama? After the death of my dad, mother moved back to Ala. to be near her mom and family. I had eight great-aunts all living in the same neighborhood, so I never lacked for attention (spoiled).
At the age of twelve I united with Mount Moriah Baptist Church. Draped in a white bed sheet and white towel on my head.
I was baptized in the Conecuh River (in muddy water). Soon after I became a Sunday School teacher. I was active in school activities, a member of the school choir, debate team, cheerleader, basketball team and dance minstrel. I was voted “Miss CCTS,” featuring a big parade and float in downtown Andalusia.
I attended Ala. State College. Douglas Blue & I were married for 54 yrs. We were blessed with one daughter, four grands and nine great-grands.
Thanks to my church family Linda Vista Second Baptist. Special thanks to the Salmond family for adopting me and all the good meals we shared together.
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