Betty Lee Hawbaker, 74, of Greencastle, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at Chambersburg Hospital.
Born on February 5, 1951, in Waynesboro, PA, she was the cherished daughter of the late Daniel R. Hawbaker, Sr. and Edith C. (Myers) Hawbaker.
Betty’s journey began in the halls of South Antrim School, where she attended through the 7th grade, later continuing her education at Greencastle Antrim High School. Her strong work ethic shone through in her professional life, beginning as a beloved waitress at Home Style Family Restaurant in Greencastle, where she often reminisced about the unmatched flavors of the food. In the early 1970s, Betty joined Corning Glassware (later World Kitchen) in Greencastle, dedicating 30 years to her role until her retirement in 2006. She carried countless stories from her time there, sharing them with a twinkle in her eye and a smile that never faded.
Betty’s greatest joy was her family. She treasured moments spent with her daughter, Tessa Hawbaker of Greencastle; her grandchildren, Derek Hawbaker and his wife, Lauren, of Chambersburg, and Cheyenne Bookwalter of Greencastle; and her great-grandchildren, Remington Bookwalter and Jameson Hawbaker. Family beach trips were a tradition—first with her cousins, and later with her daughter and grandchildren when they were young. Her infectious laughter and warm spirit made every gathering unforgettable.
Betty’s playful side emerged in her love for card games, puzzles, and reading, as well as her devotion to television and a good nap. She found excitement in trips to the casino and the thrill of buying lottery tickets. A family joke about her squirrel troubles turned into a beloved tradition, as Betty grew to adore the squirrel figurines gifted to her by loved ones, each one a reminder of their shared laughter.
Betty’s resilience and ever-present smile touched everyone she met. No matter the challenges she faced, she carried on with grace, always ready to share a story or a laugh with family and friends. Her warmth and humor will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
Betty is survived by her daughter, Tessa Hawbaker; grandchildren, Derek and Lauren Hawbaker, and Cheyenne Bookwalter; great-grandchildren, Remington Bookwalter and Jameson Hawbaker; her brother, Bobby Hawbaker and his wife, Judy, of Mercersburg; her sister-in-law, Jenny Hawbaker of Greencastle; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Daniel Ray Hawbaker, Jr.
A graveside service to celebrate Betty’s life will be taking place at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at Macedonia Church Cemetery in Worleytown, officiated by Rev. Gayle L. Ruble, Sr.
Her family will receive friends from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M., Tuesday, June 24th, at Miller-Bowersox Funeral Home, 521 S. Washington St. Greencastle.
Those wishing to share condolences may do so at www.bowersoxfuneralhomes.com.
Betty’s light will continue to shine in the memories of her family, her stories, and the love she so freely gave. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
