Betty Yates Short, 81, of Rockingham, peacefully went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at Richmond County Hospice Haven, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Oct. 27, 1944, in Hamlet, daughter of the late William Floyd Yates and Kathleen Collins Yates.
Betty was a dedicated employee in food service with FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital-Rockingham for more than 21 years. Even during her recent health battle, she worked up until days prior to her passing. Laughter and fun was just some of her attributes, and she loved everyone she met, often with her beautiful smile and warm hugs. She was always full of fun and everyone loved her.
Betty was an active member of the Hamlet Church of God of Prophecy since 1971. She played many roles within the church including band leader, church secretary, Sunday school teacher and was involved in women’s ministry. Her dedication and love for the Lord was evident in her everyday life.
Of the many things she loved in life, her family was most important. She was a true caretaker and loved her family unconditionally. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Betty will be loved and missed greatly by everyone who knew and loved her.
Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, George Edward Short; grandson, Kaleb Briggs; and brother, Johnny Yates.
Left to cherish Betty’s memory are her daughters, Amy Short Cherry and Cindy Short Briggs (Dan), both of Rockingham; son-in-law, James Cherry; four grandchildren, Brittany Short, Ashleigh Short, Brandon Cherry (Katie) and Kasey Briggs; nine great-grandchildren and one on the way; brothers, Ralph Yates (Penny) and Robert Yates (Brenda), all of Hamlet; sister, Joyce Dunlap of Fayetteville; sister-in-law, Shirley Yates of Hamlet; best friend and caregiver, Julia Anderson; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 5-6 p.m. at the Hamlet Church of God of Prophecy, 615 Cheraw Road, Hamlet.
The funeral service will immediately follow visitation, beginning at 6 p.m., with Pastor Steve Crews and the Rev. Stephen Peele officiating. Burial will be held private.
Memorials may be made to: Backpack Pals of Richmond County, 615 Cheraw Road, Hamlet, NC 28345.
Harrington Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Short family.
Online condolences may be made at harringtonfuneralhome.com.
