Betty Jean "B.J." (Day) Marley

Betty Jean “B.J.” (Day) Marley, 93, Plainfield, former longtime Indianapolis resident and educator, passed away June 13, 2023.  Betty was born in Shoals, Indiana, to the late Claude and Hazel P. (Weisbach) Day. 

She graduated from Shoals High School, and incredibly rare for the era, she earned her bachelor’s and master’s Degrees from Indiana University.  She worked as a physical education and health teacher in the Indianapolis Public School system for 35 years.  She rounded out her career as a guidance counselor, assisting many students with their college decisions.  Betty was a member of the Indiana Teachers Association. 

A former member of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, she more recently was a member of Plainfield United Methodist Church, where she was a part of the Stephen Ministry.  An avid reader and wonderful conversationalist, she was an experienced domestic and international traveler.  One of her favorite places to spend time was Sanibel Island.  She was a supporter of the arts and never turned down an opportunity to take in a Broadway show or a symphony performance.  Betty was also a huge fan of IU Basketball and the Pacers.  Betty was a talented and gracious entertainer who was known for her wonderful Christmas Eve parties.  And it would be remiss not to mention her love for Yorkies, which she raised throughout most of her life.  Most recently, her beloved MeMe was a constant and faithful companion.  B.J. lived life to the fullest and was grateful for the many blessings that were hers. 

Survivors include her family, Cyndi and Gary Cooke, Brian and Paula Peek, Randy and Judy Peek, Wanda Dickey, Tami Dickey, Steve and Claudia Dickey, Melody and Monty Wolf, and her granddaughter, Kelsey Cooke. 

The Life Celebration® Visitation and Memorial Service will be held at Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, 39 East High Street, Mooresville.  Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 Noon, Saturday, July 1, 2023, with the service following at 12 Noon.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Plainfield Library Gift Memorial Fund or to the Plainfield United Methodist Church Cubs Den Friday Program.  Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.  Visit www.CarlisleBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.