Elizabeth "Betty" Ramsey Lunsford

A woman of remarkable strength, enduring faith, and unwavering devotion to her family and community, Betty’s life was a testament to love, service, and resilience.

Born on the 1st of January 1923, in Washington, D.C., to Harold and Leila Ramsey, Betty spent her early years shaped by close family ties of a large extended family, values of hard work, community involvement and compassion. She graduated from Port Arthur High School and went on to attend Texas Woman’s University.

Betty married Jay G. Lunsford in 1942 and had three children. Together they built a loving home on Kinglet Street in Houston, where they raised their family and shared over five decades of memories. She was a devoted mother and cherished family member. After Jay’s passing and the loss of their son Jay W. Lunsford Betty continued to embody strength and grace as the matriarch of her family.

A woman deeply rooted in her Christian faith, Betty was one of the founding members of Bethany United Methodist Church on Linkwood Drive in Houston. When Bethany closed its doors she became a member of St. Luke's United Methodist Church on Westheimer in Houston continuing her commitment to fellowship and worship.

For over 55 years Betty volunteered at Texas Children’s Hospital dedicating more than 9,000 hours of service. Her steadfast presence brought comfort during times of need to countless children and families and staff (manning the teacart for many years). She was a member of the TCH Auxiliary Board and assisted with multiple tasks including Caring Critter patient visits, rock a toddler and escort for a famous red haired clown. She offered advice and support to the Junior Volunteers, Experience the Journey symposium for clergy, the Children’s Chapel and many special projects. She was celebrated (“We Love Betty”) by Texas Children’s Hospital in 2017 as well as having the Child Life Simulator Room named in her honor. Her selfless contributions reflected not only her generous spirit but also her belief in the power of kindness.

Betty was very interested in family genealogy sparked by her love for Zion Cemetery in Iola, Texas where she will be buried in the family plot. She researched the family history from early settlers of Grimes County dating back to the 1800s. For years she worked tirelessly towards obtaining a historical designation and proudly attended the celebration in May of 2019. Later her contribution to the pavilion which now stands in the cemetery was a fitting and beautiful addition to the cemetery.

Betty spent the last two decades of her life at The Hallmark in Houston where she lived independently until her passing. There she formed cherished friendships and remained active within the community. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to The Hallmark’s caregiver staff for their compassionate care during her final days.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters Julie Redding and husband Tim Redding; Nancy Allen and husband Terry Allen; grandson Jason Lunsford and wife Jenny Lunsford; great-grandchildren Allyson Lunsford and Owen Lunsford; grandson-in-law Justin Roberts; great-grandson Jack Roberts; step-granddaughter Holly Raiford and husband Lealand; step-great-grandchildren Kenzye Raiford and Bowen Raiford; niece Diane Black; grandnephews Andrew Black (wife Rachel); great-grandnephew Pearson Black and great-grandniece Emerson Black; grandnephew Christopher Black; grandnephew Robert Black (wife Keltie); great-grandnephew Graham Black; niece Peggy Strode (husband Mike Strode); grandniece Margaret Smith (husband Thomas Smith); grandnephew Bryan Strode (wife Sarah Strode).

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jay G. Lunsford; son, Jay W. Lunsford; granddaughter, Erin Roberts; parents, Harold and Leila Ramsey; sister, Margaret Ketcham and her husband, Charles Ketcham.

Throughout her long life, Betty exemplified love that was both tender and steadfast. She was caring, independent, faithful and adaptable—qualities that left an indelible mark on all who knew her. May Betty’s memory be a blessing to all who were touched by her presence.

To be announced service and interment at Zion Cemetery in Iola at a later date.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be directed to Houston Humane Society or Iola Cemetery Association, or the charity of your choice. Information for both are listed below under the ‘Donations’ section. Here you may also leave words of comfort and condolence for the family by accessing the ‘Share a Memory’ link under the ‘Show your Support’ section.