Obituaries

Betty Joan Flowers

BETTY JOAN FLOWERS, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully departed from this world on January 27, 2026, at the Brightwood Center. Born on April 5, 1933, in Weirton, Betty was the cherished daughter of John and Sophia Pillar Bosko. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Willard, who passed away on January 16, 2024. A graduate of Weir High School, class of 1950, Betty dedicated many years of her life to the Hancock County School System as a secretary. Her commitment to education was paralleled only by her deep love for her family. Betty’s three daughters-Kathleen Bee, Mary Malkovich, and Barbara Devens-along with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, were her greatest treasures. She filled their lives with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Betty was an active member of St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, where she found joy in the camaraderie of her ladies’ group, sharing thoughtful discussions and friendships over lunch outings. She had a zest for life that drew people to her. Always there with a gentle smile, she also had a spirited sense of fun, none more evident than during her adventures to Mountaineer, Wheeling Island, and Las Vegas. Those who traveled with her will recall the time she kept the party going long after her daughters went to bed, reveling in the thrill of the game. Betty was known for her impeccable neatness and attention to detail, whether it was her tidy space at Brightwood or her special purse filled with folded tissues, Hershey Kisses, and a one-dollar bill. Her whimsical charm extended to her love for Johnny Depp, whom she fondly referred to as “my guy,” never shying away from professing her admiration, even to Willard. In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her step-mother, Ann Pawlock Sosenko, Bosko, brother Art Sosenko, his wife Roxie Sosenko, and her son-in-law Rade Malkovich. Carrying Betty’s memory forward includes her daughters Kathleen A. (Geary) Bee, Mary Elizabeth Malkovich, and Barbara Jean (Ted) Devens, grandchildren Justin (Ashley) Bee, Jessica Bee, and Rade Malkovich, great-grandchildren Parker, Bailey, and Sadie Bee, and Savannah Malkovich. Friends were received Friday, January 30, 2026 until the time of Betty’s funeral service, at Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, Weirton, with Fr. Andrew Nelko presiding. Betty was buried next to her husband Willard at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made in Betty’s name to St Nicholas Orthodox Church, 604 Colliers Way, Weirton, WV 26062, American Diabetes Association at donors.diabetes.org, or to the American Cancer Society, at Cancer.org. Betty Joan Flowers’ legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit of love and laughter will continue to guide her family and friends in the days to come. Share online tributes at www.grecohertnick.com.