Betty S. Kennedy, 96, of Newville, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, June 7, 2026.

Born on August 24, 1929, in Carlisle, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Ruth (Hurley) Shoap. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leroy S. Kennedy, who passed away on July 24, 1997, and her son, Craig S. Kennedy, who passed away on December 28, 2010.

Betty had a lifelong love of music, especially country music. During her teenage years, she and her father were members of a musical group in which she sang and played guitar. Together they performed at small local venues throughout the area.

A member of the Carlisle High School Class of 1948, Betty was later employed by the Valley Times Star and worked as a home babysitter for several years. She spent several years working at the Reeves-Hoffman Crystal Plant in Carlisle from which she retired.

Faith in God and service to others were central in Betty’s life. For several years she was a member of Community Baptist Church in Carlisle, where she sang in the choir and a ladies quartet, directed Vacation Bible School, and, alongside her husband, served as a youth group leader. In later years, she became a devoted member of Newville First Church of God, where she served with the Women's Ministries, was Secretary of the Mission Board, and participated in the Happy Helpers senior group. Betty taught Sunday School for more than 60 years, instructing students of all ages from nursery children to senior adults. In recognition of her dedication, she received an award from the Cumberland County Sunday School Association for 60 years of teaching.

Betty was also active in the Newville community, serving as a Girl Scout leader and Cub Scout den mother.

She and her husband shared a love of travel and visited 45 states together. Among their many adventures, their trip to Ireland remained the highlight of their travels.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Sheri K. Houser and her husband, Ron; her granddaughter, Tara H. Minetos and her husband, Frank; and many extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 12:00 Noon until 1:00 PM at Newville First Church of God, 475 Shippensburg Road, Newville. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 PM in the church with Pastor Wayne Good and Pastor Dick Reese officiating. A time of fellowship will follow the service in the church Fellowship Hall.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Westminster Cemetery.

Betty’s life was marked by faith, service, music, and love for her family. Her kindness, dedication, and Christian witness will be remembered by all who knew her.