MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE — Nutbush Community Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of 70-Year-Old Ms. Betty “Boo”
Memphis, TN — October 21, 2025
A wave of sorrow and disbelief has fallen over the Nutbush community in Memphis following the tragic and senseless killing of 70-year-old Betty “Boo” Henderson, a beloved neighbor, mother, and friend, who was found shot to death inside her home on Helsley Street.
Memphis Police responded to a welfare check on Monday afternoon, after concerned family members and neighbors hadn’t heard from Ms. Betty in several days. What they discovered has left the community reeling: Ms. Betty was found unresponsive inside her home, the victim of an apparent gunshot wound. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have launched a homicide investigation, and as of Tuesday, no arrests have been made. The motive remains unclear, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
💔 “She Was the Heart of the Block”
Known affectionately throughout Nutbush as “Ms. Betty Boo,” the 70-year-old matriarch was a fixture in the neighborhood. Friends and neighbors describe her as a warm, wise, and welcoming soul who had lived on Helsley Street for over 40 years.
“She was the heart of the block,” said neighbor Carolyn Tate, who lived next door for two decades. “If you were new to the neighborhood, she was the first to welcome you. If you were hungry, she’d feed you. She had a way of making everybody feel like family.”
Ms. Betty was known for sitting on her front porch in the early evenings, chatting with neighbors, waving to kids on bicycles, and offering sage advice to anyone who needed it. Her door was always open, and her kitchen was often full of homemade cornbread, sweet tea, and gospel music playing softly in the background.
“She raised her kids here. Her grandkids played in that yard,” Tate said through tears. “This house wasn’t just a house — it was a home to everyone.”
🕯️ A Community in Mourning
The crime scene on Helsley Street is now marked by a growing memorial of candles, flowers, and handwritten notes, left by neighbors and loved ones who still can’t believe Ms. Betty is gone.
“She was never involved in anything dangerous. She didn’t deserve this,” said a young man who grew up on the same street. “Somebody took a blessing away from this community.”
The Nutbush community is not only grieving — they are also deeply shaken. Many are fearful and angry, demanding justice for Ms. Betty and calling on city leaders and law enforcement to address the rising violence affecting senior citizens and long-time residents.
“This shouldn’t happen to our elders,” said community activist Monica Ellis. “Ms. Betty survived decades of life, raised a family, gave back to her neighborhood — only to be taken from us like this? It’s heartbreaking and unacceptable.”
🕵️ Police Investigation Ongoing
The Memphis Police Department’s Homicide Bureau is actively investigating the case. Detectives have been seen canvassing the area, speaking with residents, and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses.
At this time, police have not confirmed whether there were signs of forced entry, nor whether robbery or another motive is suspected. They are asking the public for assistance, especially anyone who may have seen suspicious activity on or near Helsley Street in recent days.
“We are doing everything we can to solve this case and bring closure to Ms. Betty’s family,” said a police spokesperson. “We ask anyone with information — no matter how small — to contact our tip line.”
🙏 Honoring Her Life, Seeking Justice
Family members are now preparing to lay Ms. Betty to rest, and a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral costs and other family needs. A candlelight vigil in her honor is being organized for Friday evening in front of her home.
Her grandchildren, devastated by the loss, say she was the rock of their family — always there with encouragement, faith, and an open heart.
“She taught us how to love, how to forgive, how to pray,” her eldest granddaughter shared. “Whoever did this didn’t just kill our grandmother — they took a piece of all of us.”
📢 How You Can Help
The Memphis Police Department urges anyone with information to contact:
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CrimeStoppers of Memphis & Shelby County: (901) 528-CASH
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MPD Homicide Unit: (901) 636-3300
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Tips can be submitted anonymously, and a cash reward may be offered for information leading to an arrest.
🖤 In Memory of Ms. Betty “Boo” Henderson
As the investigation continues and the community mourns, one thing is certain: Ms. Betty’s legacy will live on — not just in the hearts of her family, but in the values of kindness, compassion, and community that she instilled in everyone she touched.
Her home was a sanctuary. Her spirit, a light. And though her life was taken in violence, it will be remembered for the peace and love she gave so freely.
Rest in peace, Ms. Betty. Your neighborhood will never forget you. 🕊️
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