Betty Duckworth

(From Parker Mortuary)

Betty Lucille Duckworth, age 88, of Joplin, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026, at her home.

Betty was born on September 12, 1937, in Hartford, TN to the late union of Walter and Gladys (Dorsey) Darter.

Betty married Donald Duckworth, Sr. in February of 1957 in Springfield, Missouri. To this union brought three children, Mica, Donald Jr., and Cindy. Together they enjoyed each other’s company for 59 years before Don’s passing on October 9, 2016.

Betty began working for 1st Baptist Church in Joplin for over 35 years doing just about anything and everything. She then went on to work for Higdon Florist in the 1970’s as a floral designer for weddings and catering.

Betty was extremely creative and a gifted artist. She made all sorts of different arrangements for weddings and events. She always had a fresh vase of flowers on the dining table that she had arranged. She enjoyed gardening and spent many happy hours tending to the yard she loved. She also had a fondness for collecting cameos, a pastime that reflected her appreciation for elegance and history. Betty enjoyed the beauty of treasured keepsakes and the stories they carried. She loved dogs and found companionship and joy in their loyal presence. Betty was also a devoted member of 1st Baptist Church in Joplin for over 50 years.

Betty lived a long, healthy, and happy life, and she carried herself with a quiet grace that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

In addition to her parents and husband, Betty was preceded in death by one daughter, Cindy Duckworth; and a twin sister, Betty Lou Spytell.

Betty is survived by her children, Mica Plummer and Donald “Don” Duckworth, Jr.; three grandchildren, Marrissa Houston, Beau Johnson, and Kooper Duckworth; five great-grandchildren, Raymond Houston, Rylan Houston, Jayden Houston, Nola Johnson, and Korbin Johnson; and one brother, Bill Darter.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel with Ken Hawkins officiating. Interment to follow at Diamond Cemetery with Kooper Duckworth, Beau Johnson, T.J. Houston, Raymond Houston, Rylan Houston, and Korbin Johnson serving as pallbearers.

Funeral arrangements are under the special care and direction of Parker Mortuary.