Betty Sparkman Williamson

Betty Gail Sparkman Williamson, 81, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 19, 1944, in Waco, Texas, Betty was the cherished daughter of Dr. C.M. “Sparky” Sparkman, DVM and Joyce Sparkman Lovelace. Betty was raised in Waco, Texas, and graduated from the University of Texas.

Professionally, Betty began her career working for Senator John Tower in Austin, Texas. Later, she moved to Dallas with her PRECIOUS son, Ernie, where she enjoyed an accomplished career with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In the 1990’s, Betty became one of the first female Branch Chiefs in Region 6 and the first in the Superfund initiative. In that role she had great success. During her early tenure, she built the Superfund Community Relations program to the complete and rigorous program it is today. She worked with the City of Dallas to help the American Airlines Center to become one of the first large scale Brownfields sites in the nation. While she valued her professional achievements, her greatest pride and joy was her family.

Betty lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, grace, and vibrant style. She was known throughout her family and community for her thoughtfulness and unwavering devotion to those she loved. No birthday, anniversary, or special occasion went unnoticed by Betty. She delighted in sending gifts, flowers, and her signature fun cards, always finding meaningful ways to make others feel remembered and loved.

Betty's colorful personality was evident in every aspect of her life. She was known for her love of beautiful shoes, brightly colored outfits, and impeccable sense of style. Wherever she went, she brought warmth, elegance, and joy. She was always noticed when she entered a room. Betty was an avid Gardener who grew beautiful peonies, roses and camellias. She always found beauty in flowers, books, friendships, and life’s simple pleasures.

A devoted mother, Betty treasured her son, Ernie Williamson, and could always be found cheering him on from the sidelines during his football games. For many years it was just the two of them, but she was happy to see her family grow with the addition of a daughter-in-law and three wonderful grandchildren. An even more devoted grandmother, Betty never missed an opportunity to participate in her grandchildren’s activities. She was always on the road to Houston to attend one of their events. She loved spending time with them and getting to know their friends. She took endless pictures and made sure to share them with all. In her retirement years, she embraced the things she loved most—playing bridge, traveling, participating in Bible study, attending gatherings of her Tri-City Book Club group and spending treasured time with family and friends. One of her most cherished family traditions was the annual reunion at Lake Travis, a gathering that continued for more than 48 years and created countless treasured memories for generations of Betty’s family. Additionally, her summer "UT roommate" excursions lasted for more than 64 years.

Betty is survived by her son, Ernie Williamson, and his wife, Michelle; her beloved grandchildren, Travis Allen Williamson and his wife Emma, Mary Margaret Williamson, and John Ernest Williamson; her sisters, Ann Cox, and Kay Watson, and her husband, Robert. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Michelle Ward and her husband, Bo; Kristyn Ramsey and her husband, Michael; Allison Williams and her husband, Bryan; Melissa Mehall and her husband,Todd; and Ryan Watson and his wife, Hillary.

Betty was a proud great-aunt to Tessa and Ella Ward; Max and Audrey Ramsey; Madeline, Henry, and Lillian Mehall; and Eleanor and Wells Watson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. C. M. Sparkman and Joyce Sparkman Lovelace; and brother-in-law, Ken Cox.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Marianel “Nell” Oberes, Betty's devoted caregiver, whose loving kindness, compassion, and exceptional care brought comfort and joy to Betty during her final years.

Betty's legacy is one of generosity, gratitude, faith, and love. She leaves behind a family strengthened by her example and countless friends whose lives were brightened by her thoughtfulness and friendship. Her colorful spirit, beautiful smile, and loving heart will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Honorary pallbearers are Travis Williamson, John Williamson, Ryan Watson, Robert Watson, Byran Williams, Todd Mehall, Michael Ramsey, Bo Ward

Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Incarnation, Dallas, Texas, 3966 McKinney Drive. Burial to follow in Waco, Texas at 3:00 at Oakwood Cemetery 2124 S. 5th Street Waco,TX 76706. In honor of Betty’s vibrant spirit and love of life, family and friends are invited to wear bright colors to the funeral service.

Donations may be made in honor of Betty’s life to the Church of the Incarnation or to a charity of your choice. https://incarnation.org/give/stewardship-2026/