Bette K Widener

Bette Kaylor Widener, age 85, passed away on August 16, 2025. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Memory Chapel Funeral Home in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, followed by a graveside service at 11:00 a.m.

Born in Pocahontas, Arkansas, on November 1, 1939, Bette married Thomas E. Widener on January 12, 1957. Together, they shared 65 cherished years of marriage. While devoted to her role as a wife and mother, Bette also dedicated 26 years of service to Partlow State School & Hospital.

Known affectionately as “Mam maw,” Bette found immense joy in her five grandchildren and one great-grandson. She had a wonderful sense of humor and a generous heart, especially evident in her love of cooking for family, most of all during Christmas, her favorite holiday. Her passions included cheering on Alabama sports and spending quiet moments reading.

Bette was preceded in death by her parents, Glen and Ella Kaylor; her beloved husband, Thomas E. Widener; her eldest son, Thomas Glen Widener; and her siblings Glen, Norris, Bob, and Norman.

She is survived by her sons: Dwayne Keith Widener, Van Kevin Widener (Kathie), and Scott Kaylor Widener (Anna); grandchildren: April Nicole Widener, Chelsea Alyse Strickland (Jason), Leyan Ashley Walker (Brad), Olivia Grace Widener, and Emma Michelle Widener; and one great-grandson, Gabriel Reese Strickland.