Betty Jo O'Cain

Betty Jo O'Cain (née Harris), age 80, passed away peacefully while surrounded by her family on February 9, 2026.

A lifelong resident of Polk County, Florida, she was born on September 12, 1945, in Bartow, Florida, to June and Ruby Harris (née Russ). She lived a life defined most notably by her love for Christ and devotion to her family.

She was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, George H. O'Cain; her three children, Tara Kennedy (née O’Cain), Eric S. O'Cain (Tonya), Grayson H. O'Cain (Heather); and her six grandchildren Avery, Lily, Slade, Griffin, Gracie, and Tucker.

Aside from her family, Betty faithfully served her church family and her community. She worked as an Office Administrator for W.R. Grace, IMC Phosphate, Southeast Bank, and the Department of Children & Families from where she retired. She was a dedicated member of Main Street Baptist Church in Bartow for most of her life, where she served as the church organist for decades, sang in the choir, and taught Sunday School classes for children and youth.

She loved music, cooking Sunday dinner for her family, and vacationing in the mountains of North Georgia. Betty will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her selfless nature, and her servant’s heart.

Family will receive friends Saturday, February 14, 2026 from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home in Bartow, FL. Funeral service will follow at 10:00 am Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home. Burial will be at Wildwood Cemetery in Bartow, FL. Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com