Bette A Fehrle

Bette Ann Fehrle went home, while surrounded by family members, to be with the Lord on March 7, 2026, after a long life dedicated to faith, family, and selfless service to others. Her unwavering commitment to God and those she loved defined who she was and will continue to inspire everyone who knew her.

Born August 27, 1927, in Oklahoma City to George P. Underwood, Sr., and Carrie E. Underwood, Bette grew up with her brother George Jr. and sister Louise. She graduated from Central High School in 1946, where she proudly cheered on her classmates as a member of the Black Skirts Pep Club.

Bette began her career at Southwestern Bell Telephone Company while still in high school, eventually rising to supervisor in the accounting department. It was during an orientation session for new management interns that she first met Thomas Fehrle. Sparks flew, and two years later—while both were attending a company management course—they began dating. They married in October 1959 in a union that would last through decades of shared adventures and joys.

In 1960, their first son, Craig, was born, followed by their second son, Brett, in 1966. Bette and Thomas raised two wonderful children who continue to be loving fathers to their own families.

When her boys were young, Bette volunteered in the Putnam City Elementary School library, where her love of books and helping children led to an offer she could not refuse: a position as school librarian. She served with dedication in both elementary and junior high schools until her retirement in 1990, touching countless young lives along the way.

While she and Thomas raised their children, Bette selflessly devoted her time to serving others as well. Her sons loved that she was often homeroom mother, PTA President, their cub scout den leader, and vacation Bible school teacher. She spent many years of her life tending to her aging/ill extended family members including her mother, brother, and sister. She taught Sunday school at Kelham Avenue Baptist Church and Baptist Temple Church, sharing her love of Scripture with warmth, wisdom and walking with Jesus. She also strongly supported Thomas, Craig, and Brett in their military careers up to their retirements.

Bette found joy in reading, playing bridge, and traveling the world with Thomas and the family. After Thomas was commissioned into the U.S. Naval Reserves, the family accompanied him to training sites, turning duty into delightful explorations of local history and fun. In retirement, they enjoyed memorable cruises, road trips and overseas adventures to the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, and Hawaii—several times over. Bette cherished every moment spent creating family memories. She loved spending time with the grandkids as well.

Bette is preceded in death by her parents, George P. Underwood, Sr., and Carrie E. Underwood; her brother, George P. Underwood, Jr.; and her sister, Louise B. Underwood Gabus. Bette is survived by her beloved husband of over 66 years, Thomas Fehrle; sons Craig (Michelle) and Brett (Carol); grandchildren Brandon, Annabeth, Danielle (Neal) Briscoe, and Amanda Goodner; and great-grandchildren Nathan and Evalee Briscoe.

Visitation for Family & Friends will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 13313 North Kelley, Oklahoma City, OK 73131, US, on March 12, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will take place at Memorial Park Funeral Home, 13313 North Kelley, Oklahoma City, OK 73131, US, on March 13, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

Committal will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, 13313 North Kelley, Oklahoma City, OK 73131, US, on March 13, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm.

Special thanks to Anthem Hospice and P.I.N.K. (Professionalism, Integrity, Nurturing, and Kindness) Agency for their sincere kindness, outstanding care and compassion for Bette and the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to a favorite charity or church in Bette’s honor.