Bettye Ann Jennings

Bettye Ann Jennings, 88, of Leesburg, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026. She was born on July 6, 1937, in Tupelo, Mississippi, to Jewell Morrow and Julian Acree. At the age of 12, Bettye moved with her family to Memphis, Tennessee, where she attended White Haven High School and began working in a local drugstore. It was there she met her first husband, George P. Spencer. They married in 1955 and lived in Los Angeles, California, before returning to New York. In 1985, Bettye married Norman Jennings. Together, they raised her son, Andrew, whom Norm loved as his own, and, with Andrew’s help, built a cherished home on Cayuga Lake in Trumansburg, New York. Bettye took pride in creating a warm and inviting space, showcasing her love for antique furniture and tasteful decorating. Known for her hospitality and vibrant social nature, she hosted numerous gatherings and events both at home and through her work as a receptionist at the Ithaca Senior Center. After retiring, Bettye and Norm moved to Leesburg, Florida, where they embraced life in the Lakes at Leesburg community. Bettye remained active, participating in community events and performing with the Lakes at Leesburg dance troupe. Bettye is survived by her children, Andrew Spencer of Waltham, Massachusetts, and Anne Thompson of Dallas, Texas; her nephew Jonathan Sehring of New York; and stepdaughters Susan Paterson of Lansing, New York, and Caroline Brown of Ithaca, New York. She was preceded in death by her sons Henry Spencer and John Spencer; her parents; her brother Gene Acree; and many extended family members. In her early years in Tupelo and Memphis, Bettye shared a unique connection to music history. She grew up alongside Elvis Presley and was proud to have played his first record publicly at his request during the Memphis State Fair. She was also a friend, neighbor, and classmate of Songwriters Hall of Fame member Dickey Lee, whose songs were recorded by many well-known artists. Along with her close friend Della, Bettye treasured many joyful memories from that remarkable time. Bettye will be remembered for her generous spirit, love of bringing people together, and eye for beauty. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Bettye Ann Jennings

July 6, 1937 - January 23, 2026