Bette Jo Harrelson Shuster, 88, a beloved resident of Fairhope, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home on Thur., Jun. 27, 2024. Bette was born in Montgomery, Alabama, to Grady E. Harrelson and Mildred Vinson Harrelson. At the age of ten, she moved to Michigan, where she later attended Wayne State University. After graduation, Bette began her career with United Airlines. She then moved to the Washington, D.C. area, where she served as the Administrative Assistant to Senator Robert Byrd.
Bette married the love of her life, Morrie O. Shuster, Jr., who preceded her in death, along with her identical twin sister, Bobbe Jean Novak and sister, Melinda C. Billups. Her brother Thomas Billups Jr. and wife Mary, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins that loved her and will miss her greatly survive Bette.
Bette and Morrie moved to Warren, New Jersey, where they resided until Morrie’s retirement. During her time in New Jersey, Bette was an active member of the Watchung Warren Twig of the Overlook Hospital Auxiliary, managing the patient lending library and working on various hospital fundraisers. A Master Gardener, Bette, was often found tending to her garden, a place of solace and beauty. She was also an active member of the Newcomers Club both before and after moving to Fairhope eighteen years ago.
A passionate traveler, Bette explored the world with her family and friends. She had a deep appreciation for art and music, relishing her proximity to New York City, where she enjoyed performances at Lincoln Center and visits to the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Bette was a woman of strong faith, embodying the virtues described in Proverbs 31. Her warmth and kindness touched all that knew her, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. She will be deeply missed by her friends and especially her family.
Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Anglican Church of Fairhope, Alabama, The Mitchell Cancer Institute in Mobile, Alabama, or to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
A graveside service will be held at a later date.
