Betty Jo Murray Mahala, 91, of Elkton, MD passed away on Monday, August 3, 2026. Born in Lancaster, PA on February 2, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Cicero and Wilma Hawkins Murray.

Mrs. Mahala was a proud member of Crossroads Bible Church, Elkton, MD, where she served the Lord in many ways throughout her life. She sang in the church choir and faithfully led the Junior Church Sunday School class where she spread God’s word with generations of children.

She dedicated many years of service to Sword and Shield Publications, Elkton, MD, and later worked as a Unit Clerk at Christiana Care-Union Hospital, Elkton, MD.

Mrs. Mahala loved camping with family and friends, playing cards around the table, and creating lasting memories with her beloved grandchildren, who were the joy of her life. She looked forward to Halloween each year, enjoyed searching for hidden treasures while thrifting, and found great satisfaction in quilting beautiful keepsakes and tending to her garden.

Survivors include her children, Karen Jo Brown (Gary), and Scott Mahala, both of Elkton, MD; grandchildren, Candace (Jimmy), Tim (Gwen), Eric (Karyssa), Zach, Kate (Drew), Shannon, Morgan, and Ashlynn; 11 great-grandchildren; sister, Barbara Schmuck, Quarryville, PA.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Billy D. Mahala; sons, Jeffrey D. and Barry D. Mahala; siblings, Patricia Price and Richard Murray.

Special recognition is extended to Mrs. Mahala's devoted family caregivers, her son, Scott; her granddaughter, Candace and her husband Jimmy for their unwavering love, care, and dedication.

Funeral service will be held 2 PM, Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Hicks Home for Funerals, 103 W. Stockton Street, Elkton, MD 21921, with visitation beginning at 1 PM. Interment will be in Union Cemetery, Elkton, MD.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (Attn: Memorial Giving), 501 St, Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.