Betty England Dalbey, 82, passed away on June 8, 2026, in Gulf Breeze, Florida. Born on November 12, 1943, in Mobile, Alabama, Betty was the daughter of Joe England and Myrtle McElroy England, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa England (Kirk Lamb), and her son, John Edd Thompson III (Lana); her grandchildren, Bradford Thompson (Bekah), Caroline Kaplan, Tanner Kaplan, and Grace Thompson; her great-granddaughter, Spencer England Rosen; sisters Barbara Davison, Susan England, and Jackie Howard; brother Jody England; and husband Donald Dalbey. She was predeceased by her sister and lifelong friend Pat Porter.

Betty graduated from Murphy High School in Mobile and earned a degree magna cum laude from the University of South Alabama. Intelligent, determined, and never one to shy away from a challenge, she made a spur-of-the-moment decision in her forties to take the LSAT on the same day her daughter was taking the exam. What began as a spontaneous challenge became the start of a remarkable chapter, leading her to law school and ultimately to a distinguished legal career.

While in law school at the University of Alabama, Betty served as Senior Editor of the Alabama Law Review, earned a full-tuition scholarship, competed on the National Moot Court Team, was active on the Moot Court and Trial Advocacy Boards, and graduated with honors. She also received the American Jurisprudence Award for writing the best examination in her Business Organizations course.

Following graduation, Betty built a successful legal career beginning in private practice at Sessions Fishman in New Orleans, and culminating as Assistant General Counsel for Imerys USA, in Atlanta.

Betty loved the Gulf Coast and spent much of her retirement in Perdido Key, Florida. She especially enjoyed opening her home to family and friends, hosting annual Sisters Weekends and Cousins Weekends that became cherished traditions.

More than any professional accomplishment, Betty took pride in her family. She was a devoted sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her four grandchildren were a constant source of joy, and she often described them simply and sincerely: “Just awesome, all of ’em awesome.” To them, she was not only “Gran” but also a trusted advisor, enthusiastic supporter, and, at times, a bonus parent.

Those who knew Betty will remember her sharp mind, quick wit, and sense of humor. She approached life with intelligence, perseverance, and genuine affection for the people she loved. Her presence will be greatly missed.

A private burial will be held this week with a Memorial Service to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association , https://donorservices.alz.org or Doctors Without Borders, https://give.doctorswithoutborders.org, two organizations that Betty supported.

Ingram Funeral Home, 210 Ingram Ave, Cumming, GA is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at ingramfuneralhome.com.