Bettie Jane "BJ" Hausman

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Bettie Jane “BJ” Wells HAUSMAN on February 27, 2025. The first-born child of the late William “Ralph” and Grace “Trudy” Wells, she entered the world on December 31, 1948, in Augusta, GA.

BJ attended Richmond County (GA) schools graduating from The Academy of Richmond County in 1966. From high school, BJ began her college experience at Valdosta State College. Her time at VSC saw her earn a BS in Biology/PreMed and an MA in Guidance/Counseling. It was while attending VSC that BJ’s career path began. She served in several positions associated with Student Services including many years as the Director of Student Activities.

BJ’s vibrant creativity and the ability to motivate and inspire everyone she encountered made this calling to higher education a perfect choice.

While in Valdosta, BJ met and married the love of her life, Harry HAUSMAN. It was a match meant to be where their love grew with every second. Just because she has passed, their love will never end.

Upon leaving VSC after 11 years, BJ joined the staff at then Florida Community College at Jacksonville, now Florida State College at Jacksonville, continuing in student services. She retired in 2015 as the Dean of Student Success after 33 years. During her many years of service, she helped mold countless lives.

BJ is survived by her husband of 45 years, Harry HAUSMAN, son Jason (& Kristen), and grandchildren Talan, Cora, and Claire HAUSMAN. (Nana loved you so much!) Sharing the loss are her daughter Ashley HAUSMAN Traver (& Tom) as well as sister Cathy Wells of Asheville, NC, and sister-in-law Sheryl Wells of Aiken, SC. Also surviving are sister-in-law, Karen (& Sid) Stark, of Charleston, SC; nephew Brian (& Carla) Stark of Scottsdale, AZ; and a niece Jodi (& Greg) Smith of Reston, VA. 

She is preceded in death by both parents and brother, William “Chip” Wells Jr.

BJ was a powerful source. She served countless years on the National Council for Girl Scouts. She was a creative hostess, an amazing quilter, and was recently named Master Gardener of the Year by the Orange Park chapter. She gave 200% to everything she did and made all things right with enthusiasm and ease.

A memorial service will be held at 2 pm on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at Sunset Hill Cemetery in Valdosta, GA. Louis Schmier will officiate. Donations may be made in her honor to Temple Israel Valdosta (templeisrael-valdosta.org) or the American Heart Association (heart.org). Condolences to the family may be made on her obituary page at www.mclanecares.com. Carson McLane Funeral Home 

BJ will be greatly missed but never forgotten.