Betty Willson

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Elizabeth (Betty) May Willson, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on September 21, 2024, at the age of 89. She was born May 30, 1935, in Marion, IN, to William K. and Irene (Cooper) McIver. Her family settled in Arkansas in 1947. Betty married John Newton Willson on June 8, 1952, in Siloam Springs. They moved to Neosho, MO, in 1961, and spent most of their life there until relocating to Monett, MO, in 2018.

Betty was a devoted wife and mother of five. She partnered with her husband in his pastoral activities, providing administrative support for his longstanding Bible correspondence ministry to prisoners. She helped her children develop their talents in music and academics and was always present at performances and programs. She encouraged them to serve God in their careers.

Betty played piano most of her life including accompanying for multiple church services and at senior center sing-alongs. She enjoyed writing letters and poetry. She was published as the author of a Christmas musical, “Something Wonderful,” and several freelance greeting cards/booklets, and received cash awards in two poetry competitions.

Betty also enjoyed gardening, sharing produce and flowers with others. She spent many hours cooking and baking. She was always ready, in any season, to put together a family picnic. She particularly loved being at the Beaver Lake area.

She had a soft heart for animals and cared for multiple pets in the household. She supported local animal shelters and never turned away a hungry stray (dog, cat, raccoon, possum, or others).

Betty was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, John; her parents; two brothers, William McIver, Jr. and Richard McIver; and an infant grandson, Adam Lee Willson. She is survived by one son, Mark Willson and wife Wendy; four daughters, Leah, Anna, Paula, and Sarah Willson; four grandchildren, Aaron Willson, Alayna (Chris) Roy, Abby (Ryan) Kaping, and Aileen (Joshua) Nelson; and six great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on October 2, 2024 at Buchanan Funeral Home in Monett, MO, followed by lunch. Interment will be the same day at 3:00 p.m. at Roller Ridge Cemetery in Gateway, AR. Memorial contributions may be made to Faithful Friends Animal Advocates in Neosho, MO. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett, MO.