Betty Blythe

Betty Gwyn Blythe, a proud Washingtonian for over 60 years, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2024, at the age of 89.

Born on April 3, 1935, in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina to Carlton D. Gwyn and Helen H. Gwyn, Betty was very smart, an avid reader, had a quick wit, and a great sense of humor. Betty graduated from Lincoln Heights High School in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina in 1953. She attended Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina and was a proud Bennett Belle. She graduated in 1956 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English.

Betty was driven, focused and always knew that education was a way to advance in this world. She chose to attend Howard University (HU) and earned her Master of Social Work in 1959. It was at HU where she met Dr. Robert F. Blythe (Bob), who was doing his medical residency in Urology.

Betty spent her early professional years doing Social Work in New York City before marrying Bob. After the wedding, they settled in Washington, D.C., where Bob started his private medical practice, and they were blessed with three children. Betty became a devoted wife, CEO of the household, and loving mother. During this time, she was a proud Charter Member of the Metropolitan (DC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated and held several Executive Officer positions during her tenure while chairing a host of committees and events; a proud member of The Doll League, Incorporated of Washington, DC; and a proud member of The Auxiliary to the National Medical Association, Incorporated, District of Columbia.

After 19 years providing a stable home for her children, Betty resumed her career in Social Work, providing case management at D.C. Village, For the Love of Children (FLOC) and ending her distinguished career at the Department of Behavioral Health in the D.C. Government. Born a small-town girl, she grew up to become a

big city success story. Transformative and a true pioneer, she eagerly saw the world and embraced its complexities through her passion for traveling and visiting far-off places. She had grace, style, and elegance. Her sophistication was inspirational. Betty lived her life with respect, love, integrity, and kindness. She was thoughtful, generous, and always willing to help others. Betty was loved by all who knew her, and family was very important to her. She will forever reside in our hearts.

Betty leaves behind a loving family. Those left to cherish her memory include her: children, Andrei Tyrone Davidson of Plainfield, NJ, from her first marriage; Robert Lamont Blythe (Valerie) of Washington, DC; Victor Renato Blythe of Washington, DC; Karen Blythe Whiteside (Robert III) of Laurel, MD; grandchildren: Randell S. Little, Tessa Caldwell, Gabrielle J. Blythe, Kori Blythe Whiteside, Robert Calvin Whiteside IV; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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