Don and Betty Crabtree

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. Donald Dean “Don” Crabtree, 83, of Anderson, Missouri, son of the late Wendell and Velma (Cooper) Crabtree, was born on May 21, 1938, in Pea Ridge, Arkansas. He departed this life on Saturday, July 31, 2021, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.

Mrs. Betty Lou Crabtree, 81, of Anderson, Missouri, daughter of the late Samuel and Jewel (Spurgeon) Gabbard, was born on April 12, 1940, in Ft. Klamath Falls, Oregon. She departed this life on Saturday, August 7, 2021, in the comfort of her home.

 

Don was raised in Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri. His work history included, Daisy BB Gun, F.A.G. Bearing, McDonnell Douglas and Teledyne in Neosho from which he retired. Donald was a Veteran of the United States Army.

Betty was raised and attended school in Rogers, Arkansas. For several years she owned and operated Crabtree Upholstery. Prior to being self-employed, she worked a few years at La-Z-Boy in Neosho.

Don and Betty were united in marriage on September 28, 1968 and together they have shared the last fifty-two years. Don enjoyed fishing and tending to the needs of his property. Betty also liked fishing, gardening, bird watching, quilting and cooking. They were both members of the Whittenburg Church.

Both sets of their parents preceded them in death. Also preceding Betty are three of her sisters, Beulah Schneider, Anna Belle Dickey and Barbara Sue Wilson.

They are survived by three children, Tina Samuel of Tulsa, Carla Samuel also of Tulsa and Donald Crabtree of Bryant, Arkansas; six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Don is also survived by one brother, Dennis Crabtree and wife, Norma Jean, of Joplin. In addition, Betty is also survived by two siblings, Sherman Gabbard and wife, Mary, of Seligman and Rosalee Ford of Rogers; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Graveside services for Don and Betty will be held on Saturday, August 14, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Pea Ridge Cemetery in Pea Ridge, Arkansas with Jamey Cope officiating. No formal visitation will be held. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website, www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.