Betty Jo (Sadler) Hayes of Kansas City, Missouri was a devoted mother, wife, friend, and grandmother. She lived a full and vibrant life rooted in love, family, and service. Our beloved “Betty Jo” passed away peacefully in the early hours of May 23, 2021 at the age of 91.
Born July 8, 1929 in Novelty, Missouri, Betty was preceded in death by her parents Garrett Glenn and Carroll Clestine Sadler of Kirksville, MO; an older brother Glenn who passed away as an infant; and her younger sister Yvonne Gordon of Westlake Village, California. She is survived by her baby brother Larry Sadler of Jacksonville, Florida.
During most of Betty’s childhood the family lived in Kirksville, MO. In 1946 at age 16 she graduated from Kirksville Senior High School as the valedictorian. After graduating Betty moved to Kansas City and found a job at Farmers Insurance as a typist and later was promoted to underwriter and offered a job in management. During this time, Betty caught the eye of a handsome young man working at the gas station. After a first date at the Pla-Mor, the couple eventually married on August 29, 1948. For 69 years Betty and Jene exemplified the meaning of love, hard work, and loyalty. Jene passed away on his 90th birthday in 2017 with Betty never leaving his side.
Betty was the backbone of the Hayes household, supporting Jene as he built Hayes Drilling and always keeping him in line. Despite her strong career aspirations, one of her proudest accomplishments was raising her three children Michael, Douglas, and Suzanne. She leaves them with a proud legacy and passed down her intelligence, fierce loyalty, and sharp wit.
Betty had many interests and hobbies. She was an active member at Blue Hills Country Club where she loved to socialize and golf. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed this time with close friends. She loved to have her grandchildren over for a swim, a sleepover, or a trip to McDonald’s and Chuck E. Cheese. Betty was an out of this world cook. Hungry or not, she always had a full spread ready for anyone who came by. She never forgot a birthday, anniversary, or let the opportunity to celebrate others pass her by. Betty and Jene also took numerous trips to drilling conventions, abroad to Europe, and spent winters in Scottsdale, AZ.
Betty was a woman of deep faith. Betty and Jene were founding members of Holmeswood Baptist Church, attending services regularly for 60 plus years. Betty cherished her church family. She served on committees, taught Sunday school, took on volunteer roles, and delivered meals whenever needed. Our sweet Betty will lovingly be remembered as a straight shooter. You always knew where she stood and most of the time, where she stood was right by your side. She built a beautiful life that will live on forever through her memory.
Betty leaves behind her immediate family including son Michael Hayes and wife Linda, son Douglas Hayes, and daughter Suzanne Hayes. Her beloved grandchildren; Hayley Waynick and husband Andy, Kristin Hayes, Jaime Hayes, and Samantha Fountain and husband Adam. In addition, two great-grandchildren, Franklin (10) and Dean (4) Waynick. She also leaves behind many beloved Hayes/Sadler relatives and friends.
Services will be held at Holmeswood Baptist Church at 9700 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131 on Thursday May 27th at 10:30 am followed by a graveside burial at Mount Moriah. Guests are welcome to arrive early but there will be no visitation. The family suggests donations be made in Betty's memory to the Holmeswood Baptist Church; send to 9700 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131.
