Martha “Betsy” H. Oliver, born on October 20, 1937, in Achilles, Virginia, passed peacefully on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
Betsy lived a life rooted in faith, family, and community. A devoted member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Harcum, Virginia, for over 50 years, she also gave generously of her time as a volunteer with the Gloucester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Ladies Auxiliary. She found joy in life’s simple moments, especially time spent with her cherished “Birthday Girls.” Betsy loved deeply, laughed often, and brought smiles to those around her with her quick wit and her invitation to sit and “laugh some.” She will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and the lasting impact she made on all who knew her.
One of her proudest honors was being named Grand Marshal of the Gloucester Daffodil Festival Parade in 2006 alongside her beloved husband, Wrayfield. Together, they dedicated countless hours each spring to the festival, a tradition that held deep meaning to them and remains a cherished part of their family and community
Betsy was preceded in death by her parents, Hobson and Pearl Hogge; her beloved husband, George Wrayfield Oliver, and her sister, Nancy Pearl Hogge Forrest.
She leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughters, Martha O. Clements (J.D.) and Mary O. Boerner (Richard); her grandchildren, Susan C. Durant (Chris) and Wray R. Boerner (Tia); her great-granddaughter, Hailey E. Boerner (Chris); her twin brother, John William “Billy” Hogge (Patricia, whom Betsy fondly called her “sister-in-love”); along with a host of nieces and nephews, cherished family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital, Sanders Rehabilitation, Heron Cove, Riverside Hospice, Gloucester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad, Dr. Francisco Valls, Denise Hudgins, and Charlene Davis with Riverside Internal Medicine, and to all who provided care and support during Betsy’s illness. We are especially grateful to Marsha Cagal, Brittney Morris, Cheryl Smith, and Laura Smolich for their loving presence and compassionate care, ensuring she was never alone and bringing comfort and peace to her and the family.
A visitation will be held at Andrews Funeral Home on Thursday, April 9, at 11 a.m., with a service to follow at 12 p.m. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gloucester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 1447, Gloucester, Va. 23061.
Andrews Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.