Jim & Betsy Abbott

James Edward "Jim" Abbott & Sara Benita "Betsy" Bales Abbott

[Eatonton, Georgia] –James Edward "Jim" Abbott, 83, and Sara Benita "Betsy" Bales Abbott, 81, passed away together on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Married for 60 years, they were a cornerstone of their community and the loving center of their family.

Jim, born August 15, 1942, was a native of Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents, Florence Stanley and John Edward Abbott, and his brother, John Roger Abbott (Phyllis). His family later moved to Florida before settling in Milledgeville, Georgia. He attended Georgia Military College (GMC), Georgia Southern University, the University of Georgia, Mercer University, and Georgia College & State University. He remained active with his fellow alumni in "The Gold Brigade" from his time at GMC. A dedicated educator, Mr. Abbott taught in Jones County for over 30 years. He was also a celebrated coach—leading the junior high football, girls' varsity basketball, and tennis teams, to several state titles. Jim loved playing golf, fishing, and traveling.

Betsy, born July 14, 1944, was the only child of the late Emmit and Martha Bales of Hancock County. She graduated from Sparta High School and attended Georgia State College for Women (now GCSU). It was during this time that she went on a blind double date and met her future husband, Jim. Mrs. Abbott was the welcoming face and secretary at Jones County High School for over 30 years. After retiring, she found a second calling as the church hostess at Mulberry Street United Methodist Church, a role she cherished for more than 20 years. Betsy loved to travel and had a deep passion for sharing art, music, and theatre.

Together, Jim and Betsy built a beautiful life. They shared a love of travel and a deep affection for animals, having raised many over the years. They found a special, surpassing love in their beloved pet, Lewis, who loved to travel alongside them, often riding in the front seat.

They are survived by their two beloved sons, Jay Abbott of Sparta, Georgia, and Chris Abbott of Macon, Georgia; Jim’s sister, Diane Mathis (Barry); as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 28th, at Mulberry Street United Methodist Church in Macon, Georgia. Following the service, the family will receive friends in the fellowship hall. A committal service will follow at Jewell Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Nutcracker of Middle Georgia and the Music and Choir Fund at Mulberry Street United Methodist Church.

Hart's Mortuary, 765 Cherry Street, Macon, Georgia 31201, has charge of the arrangements.