Honoring the Life of India Batson: A Tribute on January 30, 2025 – Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors

India Batson was born on February 9, 1937, to Jay C. and Gladys Bates Howard. She carried her mother’s sense of humor and her father’s strong work ethic. Growing up in Greenville, India excelled academically, graduating as salutatorian from Paris High School in 1955.

Her ambition led her to Furman University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology. India married her childhood sweetheart, Hugh Bridwell Batson, on June 27, 1959. Their love story lasted 65 years, with the couple always close to one another.

India had a dedicated career, spending 40 years at Greenville General Hospital and 30 years at Liberty Corporation. She thrived in the busy emergency room lab, enjoying the fast-paced environment. At Liberty, she built lasting friendships while assisting doctors in the infirmary.

Family was her top priority. India had high expectations for her children and grandchildren, making time to help with school projects and even sewing costumes for Halloween.

Her faith shaped her life. India was deeply involved in her church community at Leawood Baptist and Taylors First Baptist. She volunteered as a Sunday School director, prepared meals for funerals, and welcomed women’s groups into her home.

India is remembered fondly by her family. She is survived by her children, Bryan Batson (Kathleen), Dr. Howard Batson (Lisa), and Jaye Young (Ralph). Her grandchildren, affectionately called Nana, include India Batson Martinez (Daniel), Dr. Ryan Batson Smithee (John), Jordan Batson Tatum (Delton), Chandler Batson, Logan Young, and Dillon Young (Leighton). She also had five great-grandchildren and other loving family members, including a brother-in-law and several nieces and nephews.

Her funeral service will be on February 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at Mackey Mortuary Woodlawn Chapel in Greenville, SC. In her memory, donations can be made to Taylors First Baptist or the First Baptist Church of Amarillo.