Betty Hudgins Cronin's Obituary
Betty Jo (Hudgins) Cronin, 74, passed away unexpectedly on May 28, 2022 in Covington, Louisiana.
A beloved and highly revered educator and principal in Covington schools for 32 years, Betty is most well remembered for her long tenure at Covington High School, where she served as guidance counselor to generations of students, and as principal for the last six years of her career.
Born April 27, 1948 in Texas, Betty was an only child to Clarence and Myra Hudgins, who precede her in death.
After several moves in her childhood, the family settled in Buras, Louisiana, where Betty would graduate high school. She attended Southeastern Louisiana University where she met fellow education student, Mike Cronin, who would become her husband of 52 years.
Married, with a growing family, Mike and Betty moved from Hammond to Covington, where, for 50 years, the couple have woven themselves into the fabric of the community and school system.
Particularly in her retirement, Betty rallied to support a myriad of charitable causes and community efforts. She spearheaded a group to pick up trash in an effort to have Covington judged “Cleanest City”. She combined her love for her community and gardening by becoming an active member of Covington Garden Club and St. Tammany Master Gardener Association. And mindful to balance hard work with great fun, Betty welcomed the start of carnival season at Twelfth Night each year as a member of the St. John Fools of Misrule.
At home, Betty enjoyed her hobbies, pottery and baking, and engaged with what was surely her greatest joy, spending time with her adored grandchildren, who call her “Wa Wa”.
Betty is survived by her husband, Mike Cronin; daughter, Lindsey Cronin; son, Chad Cronin (Angela); and three grandchildren, Kate Cronin, Miles Clute and Oliver Clute.
Her legacy extends, as well, through the dreams and accomplishments of the many thousands of student whose lives she touched and enriched in her lifetime.
For all who ever knew her, Betty Cronin will be remembered as one who spoke loudly and loved fiercely. She will be missed immeasurably.
A Celebration of Life will be held at The Seiler Bar, 434 N. Columbia St. Covington, LA 70433 on Thursday, June 2, 2022 from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM.
E.J. Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please sign the E.J. Fielding Funeral Home online Guest Book at www.ejfieldingfh.com.
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