Tallahassee native Betty Roberts, 85, has dedicated her life to the service of others. The seventh of 13 children, Betty attributes her upbringing to how she lives her life. “My parent’s legacy to love and do good is the foundation for all I do,” said Betty.
After being educated in Leon County schools, Betty worked as a Licensed Practical nurse for 11 years before earning her Master’s in Social Work Administration from Florida State University. She worked for various branches of State government, retiring from the Agency for Health Care Administration in 1998 after 38 years of public service.
Since retiring, Betty has stayed active through community service and volunteer work. She organized the Top Ladies of Distinction and served as the group’s president from 1997-2002. The group focused on supporting senior citizens, teens, the status of women, and community beautification. Betty had also served in the following roles: Worthy Matron of Sheba Chapter #14, Order of the Eastern Star; President of Church Women United of Tallahassee; President of the Callen Neighborhood Association; Chaplin of the Zinnia Circle of the Capital City Garden Club; Supporting Member of the John G. Riley House Museum and Tallahassee Urban League; Smith William Service Center Senior Enrichment Program Teacher.
Betty is also a devoted member of her church, St. Mary Primitive Baptist Church, where she serves as a Church School Teacher, chair of the Mother’s Ministry, member of the Women’s Ministry Leadership Team, H.V Williams Services Club, and the Golden Age ministry which focuses on enriching the lives of seniors in the church.
When reflecting on all the work she has done throughout her life, Betty is most proud of being able to use her nursing skills to care for her late husband after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. She participated in FSU’s African American Alzheimer’s Caregiver Training and Support Program (ACTS2) and participated in the Florida Channel’s Documentary, Community of Color ACTS2. The documentary provides insight into the daily successes and struggles of those with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. It has been shown on Florida Crossroads and PBS public, government, and education access channels across the state.
Betty has been “blessed” with 57 years of marriage to Paul Roberts Jr., three children, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Betty lives her life “in pursuit of a legacy of love and services pleasing to God.”
