Ms. Betty Highsmith Perry entered into eternal rest April 28, 2025. Arrangements pending.

Betty Highsmith Perry was born on June 9, 1955, in Marianna, Florida, to Willie Highsmith, Sr., and Bessie Lewis.

She was educated in Jackson County Public Schools and developed an early love for people, activism, and criminal justice. In 1975, Betty married Scofield Perry. The couple relocated to Volusia County, Florida, before eventually settling in Orlando in 1982 with their daughter, Shayla. There, Betty began her career with the Orange County Sheriff's Department and the State of Florida. Fueled by her passion for justice, she went on to earn her associate degree in Paralegal Studies and her bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice — achievements that paved the way for a distinguished 30-year career in public service. Among her many accomplishments, she made history as the first Black paralegal in District 7, Orange County, Florida, with the Legal Division of the Department of Children & Families. 

Betty later continued her dedicated service in West Palm Beach, Florida, with the Department of Juvenile Justice, where she concluded her career and retired from the State of Florida.

After her retirement in 2008, Betty relocated to Atlanta, Georgia to be near her daughter, Shayla. During her time working with the Department of Children & Families, Betty developed a passion for foster care and later fulfilled that calling. She received numerous accolades from foster care agencies in Metro Atlanta for the lasting impact she had on the lives of the children she cared for, many of whom remained connected with her even after their adoptions. Betty also dedicated her time to serving as an election poll worker for DeKalb County, Georgia.

Betty was known not only for her service but for her vibrant spirit. She loved roses and was a true fashionista, always perfectly styled and ready for any occasion. She had a passion for shopping, traveling, and enjoying the beauty of the beach — places and moments where she found joy, peace, and inspiration.

Betty took great pride in being both a wife and a mother. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Shayla Che'Ri Perry, whom she often described as her absolute joy and greatest blessing. Their bond was a source of strength, laughter, and unconditional love that will endure forever.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Scofield Perry; her daughter, TyKeisha Perry (1977); her parents, Willie Highsmith, Sr., and Bessie Lewis; and her siblings Susie Pickney, Mary Highsmith, Carl Jennings, Sr., Coleman Jones, John Speights, Robert “Bopete” Speights, and her niece, Sonia Garrett.

She is also survived by her siblings:

Earnestine Fance of West Palm Beach, FL

Annette Gibson of Marianna, FL

Janet Jennings-Harris (Willie) of Tallahassee, FL

Joycie Newton of Pensacola, FL

Bernard Jennings (Stephanie) of Marianna, FL

Jimmy Wilkerson of Pensacola, FL

William Speights (Mable) of Bonifay, FL

Willie Highsmith, Jr. of Marianna, FL

Along with a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends — including Wanda Robinson of Orlando, Florida, and Rochelle Spradley (Willie) of Palm Coast, Florida, whom Betty loved like a daughter — who will continue to celebrate and honor her life and legacy.

Betty’s memory will forever be a light to all who knew and loved her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Betty Highsmith Perry, please visit our floral store.