Betty Williams

Betty B. Williams, 84, formerly of Jackson passed away Wednesday, April 30, 2009, at Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau, where she had been a resident the past four years.

She was born in 1924 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, daughter of Fern and Evelyn Rapp. She married Albert Williams, who preceded her in death.

Betty attended school in the Council Bluffs area and received laboratory technician training after high school. She later enlisted in the Navy and made maps in the Hydrographic Department during World War II.

She majored in art at the University of Omaha and the University of New Mexico.

Betty had been a member of First Presbyterian Church in Jackson since she moved to Jackson 30 years ago. She was a member of Sweet Adelines, several symphony orchestras and played in an all women's dance band.

She was involved in Scouting and led troops in Cubs Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Brownies in Cape Girardeau, and was involved in many art projects. She cared about books and was a supporter of Riverside Regional Library.

Survivors include a daughter, Carol Christine of Nevada; a sister, Jean Gotchal of Salvang, Calif.; three special caretakers, Marilyn Bartels, Bonnie Kinder and Betty Sims.

She was preceded in death by two sons, David and Eugene.

A memorial reflection will be offered during the regular worship service at 10 a.m. Sunday at First Presbyterian Church, with the Rev. Grant Gillard officiating.

A potluck dinner dedicated in her honor will follow the worship service for family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be either presented at the memorial service, or mailed to Missouri Veterans Home, 2400 Veterans Memorial Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701, for the benefit of the bingo and entertainment fund.

There will be a memorial service at Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield at a later date.

Announcement courtesy of McCombs Funeral Home in Jackson.