Hickory - Elizabeth "Betty" Johnston Sweat, 80, passed away unexpectedly May 27, 2012 at Palliative CareCenter and Hospice Of Catawba Valley.

Betty was born May 4, 1932 in Portsmouth, VA to the late Earl Francis Johnston Sr. and Sarah Parker Johnston.

She was an active member of Highland Baptist Church.

Surviving are her husband of 61 years, Reginald E. Sweat of Hickory, two daughters; Victoria Sweat Hyneman of Pahokee, FL, Brenda Sweat Cain and husband Gene of Hickory, a son: Reginald B. Sweat of Hickory, five grandchildren, a great granddaughter, a sister, Arlene J. Lindsey of Portsmouth, VA, a brother, Dr. Earl F. Johnston and wife Mary Ellen of Taylors, SC, Brother in law and sister in law Calvin and Latrell Hill, sister in law Mary Lou Taylor all of Portsmouth, VA and numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Thursday May 31 from 2:45 to 3:45 P. M. at Highland Baptist Church.

A Celebration Of Life Service will be Thursday, May 31, 2012, at 4 p.m. at Highland Baptist Church, Hickory, NC with the Reverend Jesse Lott and Reverend Kenny Robison officiating.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to Highland Baptist Church, Building Fund, 828 Highland Ave, NE, Hickory, NC 28601

Online condolences may be made at www.hickoryfh.com.

Hickory Funeral Home, Hickory, NC is in charge of arrangements.

Published in The Virginian Pilot on May 30, 2012