Betty Hurdle

Betty Hurdle, 84, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, passed away on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Lancaster General Hospital. Born in Lancaster, PA, she was the daughter of the late Elizabeth Jane (Waters) Matthews and Walter Sydney Matthews. A lifelong resident of Lancaster, Betty leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering dedication to her community. Betty was a proud 1960 graduate of J.P. McCaskey High School. She went on to become a cornerstone of the Lancaster community, lending her time, talents, and heart to numerous boards and organizations throughout her life. She worked for Alcoa from 1963 to 1969 and for the City Administration for Redevelopment Authority. A woman of deep faith, Betty was a founding member of Bright Side Baptist Church, where she served faithfully and held a position on the church board. Her commitment to uplifting others was evident in everything she did — from founding The Girl’s Club of Lancaster to leading and participating in countless community projects. Betty was also an active member of the African American Historical Society and played an important role in the 7th Ward Project. She participated in the Crispus Attucks initiative and contributed to the Heritage Walking Tour, helping to preserve and share the rich history of Lancaster’s community for generations to come. A passionate advocate for civic engagement, Betty was a dedicated foot soldier for President Barack Obama’s campaigns and worked tirelessly in support of many other Democratic elections throughout the years. She believed deeply in the power of the vote and in the responsibility every person holds to shape their community and their country. Those who knew Betty knew her warmth immediately. She was beloved for her motherly affection toward everyone she encountered, and she had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. She touched an immeasurable number of lives and leaves behind a large and devoted family. Betty Hurdle was more than a community member — she was a community builder. She will be deeply missed and never forgotten. She is survived by her four children, Sonya Diane Johnson, Robert David Hurdle, Kelly Akande (Adebayo), and Sheila Heiser; her six grandchildren, Alyssa, Andrea, Matthew, Isabella, Paige, and Olivia; her two sisters, Ella Bair, and Judy China (John). Betty was preceded in death by her brothers, Morris, George, Larry, and Walter. Betty will be dearly missed by her friends, and family, especially her bonus children, Michael and Que Qui. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. In Betty’s memory, please make donations to the American Cancer Society, www.donate.cancer.org