Betty Lou Stailey

Betty was born on May 1, 1931, in Weatherford, Texas, to Lillian Marie Curtis and Bart Jackson Yearry. From her earliest days, she carried herself with a quiet steadiness—marked by patience, gentleness, and an honest strength that would remain a hallmark of her life.

She built a life rooted in faithful dedication and dependable work, first with the Arlington Daily News and later with Lockheed Martin, where she retired. In every season, Betty was known for her thoughtful presence, her loyalty to those she loved, and a resilient spirit that met life with calm perseverance and wisdom.

Betty married Johnie Dean Stailey and was a devoted mother to her sons, Caroll H Hale and Larry Hale, and a loving stepmother to her stepdaughter, Michelle Stailey - Russ. Her home reflected her kind-hearted nature and generous care, shared with beloved pets—cats Bubba, Sissy, Moma, Garfield, Taz, and numerous cat babies, as well as her dog, Daisy.

Her faith was a guiding light throughout her life. Betty valued her church deeply, remaining active in her congregation and surrounded by friends and family. She found comfort in simple joys: Mexican food, watching old TV shows, and listening to Jimmy Swaggart—everyday pleasures that became part of the warmth and familiarity she offered to others.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Johnie Dean Stailey; her son, Larry Hale; her mother, Lillian Marie Curtis; and her father, Bart Jackson Yearry.

Betty lives on through her son, Carroll H. Hale and wife Shirley; her granddaughter, Ladona Manire and husband Scott; her great-granddaughter, Makenna Manire; Hannah Curry/Ryna; and Kyla Manire; her brother, Jack Yearry and wife Mary Ann; her niece, Holli Pinto and husband Javi; her stepdaughter, Michelle Stailey-Russ and husband Bryan; her grandson, Michael Russ; and her granddaughter, Caitlin Russ.

Remembered as beloved and selfless, Betty leaves a legacy of compassion, generosity, and faithful devotion—one that will continue to be carried forward by all who were blessed to know and love her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Grand Prairie Funeral Home, 733 Dalworth Street, Grand Prairie, TX 75050 on October 22, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.