Betty Joe Craighead

Betty Joe Craighead, 94, of Midwest City, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026.

Born on May 16, 1932, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Betty was the daughter of Clell and Amy Durham. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 51 years, David Craighead; her parents; and her sister, Billie Phagans.

A lifelong educator, Betty dedicated her career to helping others learn and succeed. She attended Duncan High School, Cameron University, and the University of Oklahoma. Throughout her years as a teacher, she taught fifth and sixth grades in Norman and Mid-Del schools and later taught GED classes at Rose State College. Teaching was more than a profession for Betty. It reflected her belief in the potential of others and the power of education to change lives.

Betty was a longtime member of Mayflower Congregational Church in Oklahoma City and remained active in worship and Sunday School throughout her life, continuing to participate virtually when she could no longer attend in person. She and David shared a deep commitment to social justice, human dignity, and helping those who were underserved and in need, including support of causes such as Amnesty International.

Known affectionately as "Gran," Betty's greatest joy was her family. She was the loving mother of Gail Patricia and Ruth Amy. She is survived by her daughter, Ruth Amy Henderson and her husband, Thomas Dean Henderson, Jr.; grandsons Thomas Dean Henderson, III ("Trip") and his wife, Cathryn, and Brady Joe Henderson; beloved great-granddaughter Olivia Sue Henderson; and sister Patsy Prater.

Betty was known for her generous heart, sharp wit, curiosity, and unwavering belief that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect. She genuinely cared about people and was always interested in what was happening in their lives. Whether asking about work, family, or matters of the heart, her questions came from a place of love and concern. Family and friends knew they could count on her encouragement, wisdom, honest opinions, and the occasional direct observation that often left everyone smiling.

She found joy in mystery novels, OU football, art, movies featuring strong female characters, and the natural world around her. An avid animal lover, Betty delighted in feeding the birds that visited her yard and sharing updates on the cardinals, hawks, and other wildlife she enjoyed watching. She spent many years taking art classes, often drawing animals inspired by her love of nature and her National Geographic magazines.

For more than forty years, Angel Fire, New Mexico, held a special place in her heart. There, generations of their family gathered to make memories, share traditions, and enjoy time together in the mountains she loved.

Above all, Betty will be remembered for her unconditional love, generous spirit, sharp wit, and the way she made people feel seen, valued, and cared for.

In honor of Betty's lifelong commitment to helping others, memorial contributions may be made to Sunbeam Family Services in lieu of flowers.