Betty Jo Gober

Betty Jo Gober was born in Toccoa, GA on June 6, 1939. She was the daughter of the late Jesse and Pheoby King Swift. She was the wife of the late James Earl Gober. She departed this life on March 11, 2025. Betty’s presence and unwavering spirit touched the lives of all who knew her.

She was a long-standing member of Shady Grove Baptist Church, a community pillar, trailblazer, organizer and volunteer. She is one of the first Black women to integrate Standard Telephone Company (now Kinetic by Windstream). She was instrumental in starting the Habersham County Mentoring Program and a major contributor to the Northeast Georgia Peace Council. She participated in and organized The National Day of Prayer in Habersham County for over 20 years. About 14 years ago the City of Cornelia designated her 80th birthday, June 6th, as Betty Gober Day. She was an outstanding member of the Wisteria Garden Club and Gold Club where she served in several leadership positions. She mentored elementary students and conducted Bible study in a local community center in Cornelia. She collected and distributed food at local food pantry at her local church.

She leaves in loving memory, one daughter, Felecia (George) Doyle, III of North Carolina, Gregory (Regina) Gober of Flowery Branch, James Earl Gober, Jr. of Clarkesville, Ga. She leaves two sisters, Jeraldine Hayes, and Judy (Anthony) Poole. She was preceded in death by brothers, Jerry Swift, Lieutenant Swift, Hoyt Swift, and sisters May Carter Mayfield, Magnolia Swift, and Liza Gholston. She has 11 Grandchildren, Shauntara (Christopher) Jones, Chelsea (Christian) Smith, Patrick (Karolina) Doyle, IV, Joshua Gober, Isaiah Gober, Josiah (Nigerra) Gober, Trey Gober, Julian Gober, Justus Gober, Londyn Gober, Wayne Irvin Gober, 4 Great Grandchildren, Axel Jones, Trinity Jones, McKinley Smith and Myka Smith and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

In this time of sorrow, we remember Betty's exceptional life and the legacy of love she leaves behind. Her memory will continue to inspire those who were part of her life, reminding us of the importance of family, service, compassion, and community.

Celebration of Life services are 3 pm on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at The Torch Worship Center with Pastor Tony Elrod.

Interment will be in Level Grove Cemetery at a later time.

Receiving of family and friends and repast will be held from 4-6 pm on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Shady Grove Baptist Church.

An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.