Miriam Elizabeth (Betsy) Mahone Inabnet was born December 2, 1923 in Williamsburg, Virginia. She was one of seven children and had an idyllic childhood growing up on the York River, on a farm that later became Camp Peary, the training facility for the CIA. Betsy was intensely shy outside of her family circle, devoted and loyal to her family. While working as a bank teller in Williamsburg during the war, she met the love of her life, James Inabnet, a Texan serving in the Navy. In 1945, Betsy and James married and soon moved to Evant, Texas – a daring gamble for a shy young woman. With James serving as Evant’s Postmaster, Betsy worked by his side as a clerk while they raised their two young daughters. Upon their retirement, they opened Inabnet’s Woodworks and Needlecrafts on the square in Evant, where they were shopkeepers for over 20 years, both pursuing their passion and hobbies while still working side by side. Betsy’s hand crafted needlework creations were well known and admired. Throughout their 59 year marriage, Betsy and James would make many trips to Williamsburg and Colorado, their favorite destinations. After James’ death, Betsy was always game for a trip with her family, going wherever they chose, not wanting to miss out on anything. Betsy was a member of Eastern Star. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Louise (Lou) Inabnet Chandler, son-in-law, Ron Chandler, grandchildren, Holli Hill, Heather Alexander, Jake Hill, Robert Alexander, and Chris Alexander and great grandchildren, Ashton Alexander, James Hill, and Hudson Hill. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Inabnet, and her daughter, Normarie Inabnet Alexander.
A graveside memorial service will be held at Murphree Cemetary in Evant, Texas at 10:30 am on July 27th. Following, a visitation will be held at the family home on Circle Drive.
