Beth Rees Wadlington

June 17, 1945 - June 18, 2022

Beth Rees Wadlington, 77, fondly known as Sweetheart, Mom, Gammy, Bethy, and Toots, died peacefully at home on June 18, 2022, surrounded by her family. Beth was born on Father’s Day, June 17, 1945, in Jacksonville, NC. She grew up in Virginia and graduated from Blacksburg High School. Beth was a proud alumnus of the University of Kentucky- Go Big Blue! She met the love of her life, Jim, in college at UK, and they were married for 55 years. Beth taught elementary school in Greenville and Southaven for almost 30 years and was extremely active in her churches, Greenville UMC and Maples Memorial UMC where she taught Sunday school. Beth founded and lead the Maples Learning Center in Olive Branch. She instructed water aerobics at the YMCA and volunteered with Meals on Wheels. She adored to travel, and she and Jim galavanted around the world frequently visiting dozens of countries. Beth loved drinking a good glass of wine, cooking delicious meals, and spending time with family and friends. She never met a stranger and had an infectious laugh that could light up a room. Her warmth and bubbly personality will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know her. She was preceded in death by her parents Dr. Robert (Bob) and Jane Rees of Huntsville, AL. Beth is survived by her husband, Jim Wadlington of Olive Branch, daughter Denise Wadlington Newton and husband John of Frisco, TX; son Ben Wadlington and wife Delia of Ridgeland; grandchildren Davis, Rees, and Brantley-Kate Newton (triplets) of Frisco, TX; Parks Wadlington, Reagan Justice, and Audrey Justice of Madison; and two nephews. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 21 from 9am to 11am at Maples Memorial UMC in Olive Branch with service immediately following. Rev. Tom Buckley, Rev. Stephen Sparks, and Dr. Joey Lott will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Maple Memorial UMC, 8745 Goodman Rd, Olive Branch, MS 38654.