Condolences to Betty's Family.  Leslie, your Mother was one of the smartest people I met when I worked at Brooksville Primary.  She always impressed me with her professionalism, and modesty.  She never craved any spotlight and worked very hard, and I felt did things above and beyond.  What a beautiful soul.  Blessings.

Betty was instrumental helping Robert and other Kiwanians form the first K-Kids Chapter in the state of Florida at BES.  She and Leigh Anne carried on the traditional at CK8, teaching our children the value  and rewards of helping others.

Excited anticipation when Challenger was under construction.  After the school day ended, Betty would come to my makeshift office and work with me sometimes into the early hours of the morning. Such a Godsend to me!

Super Fans, Betty and Robert were always on top of everything making sure our Gator Gatherings ran smoothly!

It is with a broken heart and great sadness that I write this. 

Betty and I worked together for almost 20 years, joined at the hip for most of those years.  We shared a special friendship, a mutual respect and a strong dedication to our schools, staff and students.  

She was an extraordinary person and educator.  She was smart, she was mathematically savvy and she was way ahead of the curve when computers were introduced into the schools. She was an expert on so many levels and was always willing to help others.

Betty did her best to hide her Light under a basket. She never sought accolades and seemed, in fact, most comfortable being behind-the-scenes quietly getting things done. But her nearly-impossible-to-match  work ethic was one thing she couldn’t hide.  It did not go unnoticed.   

For those of you who knew Betty well, you know she was not always as reserved as her demeanor may have indicated. She had a keen sense of humor that was priceless.  Her timing was usually perfect, her quip right on target and her laugh was just one of the best out there.

When I was assigned to BES,  Betty was my mentor, my guide, my sounding board and my confidante. Along with everyone else who has ever worked with Betty, I learned so much from her.   I could not have done my job successfully without her.  

 My prayer is that Betty understood how good she was, how invaluable she was to me and many others and how much she was respected and loved by so many.  

Life without Robert was very tough for Betty.  He was the love of her life. I think she struggled mightily to carry on day to day without him. They did almost everything outside of work together so it’s not hard imagine the loneliness that must have overwhelmed her. 

May she rest in peace forever with Robert by her side, walking the sidewalks of Heaven at break-neck speed.  I love you, Betty.  God bless.

I had the pleasure to know and worked with Mrs Draper. I will remember her as a hard worker and dedicated person. My condolences to her entire family.  I am so sorry for your loss.

Betty will continue to be remembered by me for her kindness, her devotion, professionalism, and poise.  Such a sweet and smart Lady.  Prayers for the Family.  I enjoyed the pleasure of working with her during my time working @ Brooksville Primary/Brooksville Elementary School.  Her leadership taught me so very much in that time.

I’m very sorry to hear of Mrs. Draper’s passing. She was the AP at BES my first two years teaching back in 2001. She was warm, supportive, and encouraging at every turn. I had a very positive experience as a new teacher because of her leadership and guidance. I will forever be grateful for that. My sincere condolences to your family during this time.

OBITUARY

Elizabeth "Betty" Draper

September 30, 1946 – August 26, 2025

Merritt Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services