Bettye Rosalie Watts Harris, born June 1, 1943, in Boston, MA and passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and commitment to education and her community. She was the daughter of the late Josephine (Taylor) and Alonzo F. Watts. Bettye was also preceded in death by her sister Barbara Watts-Young, her sister Josephine Watts-Noble, and her beloved daughter, Stephanie J. Watts. She is survived by her daughter Jerina Harris, her grandchildren Agustin Harris-Velasquez Jr. and Ariana Rosalie Harris-Velasquez, her brother Alonzo F. Watts Jr., her sister Janice Watts and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.  Bettye was the beloved wife of the late Gloster J. Harris Jr. of Alabama. Together, they created a strong family foundation grounded in love and faith. They raised their children with an unwavering commitment to education and personal growth.

Bettye Harris grew up in Roxbury, Massachusetts. Despite the heartbreaking loss of her mother at the young age of 15, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of excellence. Bettye graduated from Jeremiah Burke High School and went on to pursue a higher education. She became one of the first in her family to graduate from Boston State College; earning a Bachelor's Degree in Education, followed by a Master's Degree +30. She dedicated her life to instilling the value of education in every child she encountered. Bettye Harris was an influential educator who worked tirelessly for Boston Public Schools beginning in the mid-1970s. She paved the way for Black educators and was a fierce advocate for equitable education.

A lifelong member of People's Baptist Church, Bettye was deeply committed to her church Family; often encouraging others to join and become part of the PBC community. She was a beloved member of Group 3 and made sure that her children, grandchildren, and nieces were baptized and immersed in the church's teachings. In addition to her work in education, Bettye was an active community leader, particularly in Roxbury and the city of Boston. Bettye also remained a committed member of the retired chapter of the Boston Teachers Union, continuing her advocacy for the rights and well-being of educators and students. Bettye cherished fellowship and was a member of the Goldenaires and the Eastern Stars, maintaining lifelong friendships with both organizations.