Bettie Jean Jackson

Bettie was born on February 4, 1936 in Schlater, MS, near Greenwood, to Argusta (Rose) Henderson. Adopted by John Henderson, she grew up in Mississippi until she was 14 years old. She then moved to Chicago, IL to live with her Aunt Lucille (Rose) Hale and cousin Girthree. There, Bettie attended William McKinley and Crane High Schools in Chicago, graduating in 1954.

During high school, Bettie was introduced by her cousin Girt to Earl Jackson at the Madison Street roller rink where they started a relationship that would ultimately span over 60 years. However, it took over 3 years of earnest pursuit before Bettie "gave in" and married him in 1957. It was during this time that Bettie came to know and accepted Jesus Christ as her savior.

The following year, Kevin, was born. A few years later, Everett was born. When Earl re-entered the U.S. Air Force in 1963, Bettie became the consummate military homemaker, caring for her family while Earl traveled to various assignments. Their travels took them to Keesler AFB, Dover AFB in Delaware, and to Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls, where the family has settled to this day.

Bettie quickly made friends at each station, but built the most lasting relationships with her neighbors and other military wives in Wichita Falls. Bettie enjoyed fellowship at East Lynwood Baptist Church for many years before settling at the Sheppard AFB North Chapel, the "Solid Rock Cafe". Bettie enjoyed bowling, shopping, and cooking for large groups of folks, even contributing to several cookbooks along the way. Bettie was a long-time member of the Women Who Care community organization.

In keeping with his promise to Argusta, Bettie's mother, many years ago, Earl cared for and was with Bettie every step of the way as her health faltered and eventually failed, being called to the Lord on Tuesday, September 16.

Bettie was preceded in death by her mother Argusta and father John Henderson, her youngest sister Bessie (Honey) just last year.

Bettie is survived by her loving husband Earl and sons Kevin (m. Sharon) and Everett; her brothers John and Ashley Henderson, and sisters Carrie (Henderson) Felton (m. James) and Carolyn (Henderson) McNeal, and cousin Girt. Also surviving her are grandchildren Michael Young, Genedra Walker, Matthew Jackson and Simone (Jackson) Ward (m. Travis) and other cousins, nieces, and nephews throughout the country.

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