Betty Jo Batson Rish, 89, of Wewahitchka, went to be with the Lord on Friday, January 31, 2014 in her home. She was born February 28, 1924 in Athens, Alabama to Eugene & Lillie Batson. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Wewahitchka. Mother was always committed to her church and family. She was a prayer warrior, rock and teacher and defined the meaning of the word faithful servant. She loved her family near or far unconditionally. Mother opened our home to all our friends and cared for them with her loving generosity. She was a strong Christian lady who used wisdom in all her endeavors. These traits were exhibited to all who knew her; we would all be blessed to follow in her footsteps.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert "Bobby" Rish; one brother, Eugene Batson; and four sisters, Nell Prodgers, Doris Batson, Rachel Hutto and Grace Duke. She is survived by her two daughters, Ann Johnson (Mitchell), Doris Jean Whitten (Byron); six grandchildren, Chris Morris (Kim), Charlene Ellis (Sean), Meagan Forrest (Ryan), Robbie Morris (Allison), Chaz Whitten, Tyler Whitten; eight great grandchildren, Walker Morris, Ashlyn, Alexis and Kody Ellis, Aidan and Cooper Forrest, Landon Whitten, Raelee Morris; two brothers, John Andy Batson (Eleanor), Bert Batson (Sally); and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday at the First United Methodist Church of Wewahitchka with Rev. Dan Baughman and Rev. Joey Smith officiating. Interment will follow in Jehu Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. Active pallbearers will be Robbie Morris, Chaz Whitten, Tyler Whitten, Ryan Forrest, Chris Morris and Sean Ellis. The family will like to give a special thank you to Dr. Michael Barnes and Staff and A and A Home Health Care.