Bettye Bryan Pate

Bettye B. Pate, 90, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026. Daughter of James and Florence Bryan of Albany, Georgia, Bettye was born on January 11, 1936. Bettye’s life was defined by a deep faith in God, love for the arts, a heart full of compassion, and an unyielding commitment to those she cared for. Bettye’s college journey began at Auburn University before she graduated from Boston University, where she had the privilege of studying under the renowned artist Conger Metcalf. Her love for the arts flourished as she became an accomplished artist in her own right, using her work not only to express beauty but to support those struggling with eyesight. An avid gardener, Bettye found peace and joy in cultivating roses and dahlias, and she traveled the world to explore and experience the beauty of gardens from every corner of the globe. Her own garden was a reflection of her nurturing spirit—meticulously cared for, vibrant with life, and always welcoming. Beyond her artistic achievements and green thumb, Bettye’s greatest gift was her ability to love and mentor those around her. Whether in her hometown of Albany, at the artist’s studio, among the Navy community, in the halls of Congress in Washington, D.C., or in her local Bible study, Bettye’s warmth, grace, and wisdom touched countless lives. Even in the most unlikely places, including behind the Iron Curtain in Soviet Russia, Bettye’s presence was a beacon of hope and light to those in need of encouragement, kindness, and guidance. Bettye is preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Zack T. Pate, and is survived by a niece and nephew Laura Brannen Wingfield and Sam Brannen and a family of close friends. Her legacy will continue to live on in the many lives she touched. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bettye’s honor to the Georgia Eye Bank (Georgiaeyebank.org) or Church of the Apostles (Apostles.org). A celebration of Bettye’s life will be held on Friday, February 13 at 11 AM at The Church Of The Apostles, 3585 Northside Parkway, NW Atlanta, Georgia, 30327, with a reception to follow. Bettye’s spirit will be dearly missed, but her memory will forever inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. Kimbrell-Stern Funeral Directors is in charge of local arrangements.

Bettye Bryan Pate

January 11, 1936 - January 21, 2026