Bette Jean Stewart

Bette was born in Albany, Indiana, to Dr. Karl and Sylvia Puterbaugh. She always spoke fondly of her childhood and the close relationship she had with her parents. A bright and dedicated student, she graduated valedictorian of Albany High School and went on to attend Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, and later continued her studies at Indiana University. She earned her degree in Elementary Education with a minor in German.

Bette met the love of her life, Forrest Stewart, during their high school years—she was a cheerleader for the Albany Wildcats, and he played basketball for the Dunkirk Speed Cats. They later built a life together in Daleville, where Forrest ran a successful furniture business, and the two became well-loved members of the community. Bette taught elementary school for a few years before choosing to focus on raising their family.

Bette was a devoted wife, a loving mom, and a proud grandmother and great-grandmother. She especially loved cooking for her family, and many of her recipes and traditions are still enjoyed at family gatherings today.

She also loved staying active and social. Bette played tennis with friends at the Anderson Racquet Club and became quite skilled at the game. She was also a founding member of a Daleville Women’s Bridge Club, often hosting get-togethers at her home and enjoying many lively games with friends. Bette’s memory lives on in the gardens she nurtured, the meals she lovingly prepared, and, most of all, in the family she held so close to her heart.

Bette is survived by her children, Michele (Jeff), Jeff, and Marc (Pam) Stewart; her grandchildren, Jessica (Nate), Madelyn (Michael), Benton, and Connor; and her great-grandchildren, Evelyn, Emmett, Liam, Shira, Josie, and Jack, with another great-grandchild on the way. She is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews—Meg, Heidi (Randy), Libby, Judy (Tom), Gloria (Michael), Bill, and Jim (Bev).

Her deep love for animals will always be cherished, especially the bond she shared with her two Bichons, Bo and Pip, and her devoted emotional support cat, Willow, who stayed faithfully by her side. Her family is profoundly grateful to the compassionate home caregivers whose dedication and kindness made such a meaningful difference in her life.

In honor of Bette, memorial donations may be made to the Animal Protection League in Anderson or Action for Animals in Muncie.

There will be no calling hours, but a Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

— Matthew 25:23