Betty Junod Patranella

Betty Junod Patranella, 75, of Bryan, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026, with her devoted husband by her side and surrounded by the love of her family, following a long journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

Betty was born on August 9, 1951, in Beaumont, Texas, to William Boyden Junod and Betty McReynolds Junod. She grew up in Beaumont and graduated from Beaumont High School in 1970. After high school she attended Sam Houston State University in

Huntsville, Texas, where she met the love of her life, Michael “Mike” Patranella whom she affectionately referred to as “Babe” for the next 54 years. In true Betty fashion, she knew what she wanted and she was the one who proposed to Mike. That story became a treasured part of their life together and was just one example of the spirited, confident woman Betty was.

Betty and Mike were married on August 5, 1972, beginning a life together grounded in faith, family and love. They settled in Bryan, Texas, where they welcomed their three children, Chris, Andrea, and Katie, and created a lifetime of cherished family memories.

Betty's love for children extended far beyond her own family. Known as the ultimate team mom, she was her children's biggest cheerleader and a second mother to many. Whether driving a car full of kids, feeding hungry teammates, or offering lots of

encouragement from the stands, she gave generously of her time and heart. One of Betty's greatest joys was combining her love of children with her passion for the water, which she did through years of teaching swimming and diving lessons to countless young people. Through her patience, kindness, and enthusiasm, she helped hundreds of children gain confidence in the water while creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Betty was a wonderful cook, and her love of cooking became known well beyond her own family when her famous gumbo recipe was published in the 1981 Southern Living Annual Recipes cookbook. She opened her home and her heart generously, and many of

the family’s happiest memories were made around her kitchen table.

In 1998, as they entered the empty-nest chapter of their lives, Betty and Mike relocated to Lubbock, Texas. There, they embraced a new community, formed many lasting friendships, and continued sharing the warmth and joy that drew others to them. With her outgoing spirit and natural gift for bringing people together, Betty soon found another special way to share her zest for life: line dancing. She joined a group that performed at numerous care facilities, using music, dancing, laughter, and fellowship to bring happiness to others wherever she went.

Those who knew Betty will remember her warm, outgoing personality and her unmistakable presence. She was rarely, if ever, at a loss for words. Betty was honest, spirited, and never afraid to say exactly what she thought. Time spent with her usually left you with a good story, a good laugh, or both. She was a woman who made an impression, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

Betty is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Mike Patranella; her three children and their spouses, Chris and Leah Patranella, Andrea Patranella Walter and Ryan Walter, and Katie Patranella Guilbeau and Gary Guilbeau; and her eight grandchildren, Austin and Chase Patranella, Carson, Cameron, and Connor Walter, and Nathan, Gia, and Ava Guilbeau. She is also survived by her brother, Mac Junod, and his wife, Diana.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, William Boyden Junod and Betty McReynolds Junod, and her beloved sister, Rena Katharine Bernabo.

Betty’s life was defined by the love she gave and the family she cherished. Her laughter, her stories, her cooking, her dancing, and her fiercely loving spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Though Alzheimer’s slowly took away so much of her, it could never take away the love she gave or the memories she created. Betty will be deeply missed as a wife, mother, grammy, sister, aunt, and friend. Her family takes comfort in their faith and in knowing that, after a life centered on those she loved most, her journey is complete and she is now at peace in the loving arms of her Lord.

The family is forever grateful to the many caregivers who surrounded Betty with love, compassion, and dignity, including the dedicated teams at Hudson Creek and Hospice Brazos Valley. Each played a meaningful role in her care, comfort, and happiness. A special expression of gratitude is extended to Alexandra McGee and Florence Munene, whose extraordinary care and constant companionship over the last six years created a bond that made them truly part of the family.

Visitation will be held Monday, September 21, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Memorial Funeral Chapel 1515 South College AVenue, Bryan, Tx 77801 with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 6:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated September 22, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 600 E 26th St, Bryan, Tx 77803 followed by burial at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church or Hospice Brazos Valley.