Betty’s husband, Scotty Probasco Jr, was a prominent Chattanooga banker, philanthropist, and devoted family man, who passed away 10 years before her in 2015.
Born on October 18, 1929, Betty Probasco was an iconic figure in American women’s amateur golf.
Over five decades, she claimed state championships across Kentucky and Tennessee, captured the 1950 National Intercollegiate title, and helped lead Rollins College to a national championship.
Her prowess extended to prestigious venues like Seminole Golf Club, where she won 13 titles.
She was inducted into both the Tennessee and Kentucky Golf Halls of Fame and once captained the U.S. Curtis Cup team.
Tragically, Betty passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, at the age of 95.
Betty Probasco And Her Husband, Scotty, Were Married For 61 Years!
Betty Rowland married Scotty Probasco Jr., a respected philanthropist and banker.
Born on November 26, 1928, Scotty Probasco came from a family with a long legacy in banking.
He was the grandson of Harry Scott Probasco, founder of American National Bank, and the son of Scott L. Probasco Sr., who established a trust company later acquired by SunTrust Banks.
Regarding his education, Scotty graduated from the Baylor School in Chattanooga, where he played on the golf team, and subsequently earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Dartmouth College.
He also attended the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, further sharpening his business acumen.
Though he once considered becoming a preacher, he ultimately joined the family business.
He was recognized for his leadership at SunTrust Bank (formerly American National Bank) and for overseeing the Probasco family’s business interests.
He served on numerous corporate boards, including those of Chattem Inc., Combustion Engineering, Provident Accident and Life, and Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc.
Additionally, he was deeply involved in many educational and religious causes, especially those supporting young people and Christian values.
The beloved couple, Betty and Scotty, met in 1953 at the U.S. Amateur golf tournament. Their connection quickly grew, and they got married just a few months later.
Together, they lived most of their life in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and built a strong and enduring partnership rooted in faith, community service, and family.
The couple had four children: Scott (Alexis) Probasco, Zane (Greg) Brown, Ellen (Chris) Moore, and Ben (Susan) Probasco. They lived most of their married life in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
The eldest, Scott, has been actively involved in family and civic affairs. He is known for his warm recollections of his mother’s golfing days.
Zane, along with other children, has served as Mayor of Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, and has been involved in local leadership and community service.
Another daughter, Ellen, has also remained close to the family’s Chattanooga roots and is part of the extended network that continues to support charitable and faith-based initiatives.
Likewise, Ben, the fourth child, served on the Board of Directors for Krystal.
Together, the four siblings have 12 children and 13 great-grandchildren. Many of them have remained active in the Chattanooga area, contributing to civic, educational, and faith-based causes.
Sadly, Scotty passed away on April 17, 2015, at his home on Lookout Mountain, at the age of 86, after 60 years of marriage to Betty.
Following his passing, Betty continued their shared legacy through her ongoing support of charitable initiatives, particularly the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Baylor School scholarships, right up until her own passing in 2025.
Now, with both parents gone, their children stand as stewards of that legacy.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Betty served on the USGA Women’s Committee for over a decade.
- She held presidencies in both the Women’s Tennessee Golf Association and the Women’s Southern Golf Association.
- Though selected for the 1956 Curtis Cup team, she declined due to pregnancy and later returned as captain of the victorious 1982 U.S. team.
