Betty Jane Arnold

Betty Jane Arnold, a cherished member of the Abingdon community and co-owner of Abingdon Electronics (Radio Shack) for more than three decades, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, at her daughter's home in Bristol, Virginia. Born on January 29, 1942, in Abingdon, VA, Betty lived a life marked by dedication, warmth, and an enduring commitment to her family and friends.

A proud graduate of Cleveland High School in Abingdon, Betty’s connection to her hometown was deep and lifelong. Alongside her career at Abingdon Electronics, where she was known for her steadfast leadership and personable nature, Betty touched the lives of many through her kindness and welcoming spirit. Her gentle nature and great sense of humor made her a beloved figure not only in business but at every gathering, where she always had a way of making others feel comfortable and valued.

Betty’s greatest joy came from her family, especially playing with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose laughter and presence brightened her days. She delighted in simple pleasures such as shopping outings and sharing moments that brought happiness to those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will be treasured by all who knew her.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Weldon Saltz and Rosa Lee Bailey Saltz, her husband, Denzil Arnold, and her siblings, Norma Jean Saltz, Jerry Wayne Saltz and Bonnie Sue Saltz Atkins.

She is survived by her devoted daughters, Sharon Flanders and her husband, Ken, and Susan Dugger, who stood by her side with unwavering love. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Sarah Michelle Flanders Smith (Brandon), Kristen Flanders (Ben Parsley), and Rebecca Elizabeth Dugger Meade (Hunter), along with her great-grandchildren Eli James Smith, Emma Grace Smith, Ellie Rose Smith, Peyton Gentry Meade, Sawyer James Meade, and Greyson Landry Meade, carry forward her spirit and warmth. Betty was also dearly loved by her cousin and best friend, Barbara Wyatt (James), as well as by several nieces and nephews who remember her fondly.

A visitation will be held on March 19, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Farris Funeral Service – Main Street Chapel, located at 427 E Main St, Abingdon, VA. This will be an opportunity for friends, family, and the community to honor Betty’s memory and celebrate a life well lived.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Disease Research at https://donate.brightfocus.org

The family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice, Hannah and Teresa for the wonderful care they provided to Betty.

Betty Jane Arnold’s passing marks the end of an era for many, but her kindness, humor, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know her. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered with love and respect.