Betty Jane Sebring

Born on November 25, 1936, in Buncombe, North Carolina, Betty lived a life marked by dedication, love, and a quiet grace. She departed this world peacefully, hand in hand with her beloved daughter Cheryl, surrounded by the warmth of love that she so often shared with others. The daughter of Richard and Marie Claire Dorris Garrison, Betty was predeceased by her devoted husband Mike Sebring, with whom she shared 49 years of marriage. They were married on July 12, 1958, and together they built a life full of cherished memories. Betty was also preceded in death by her daughter Susan Sebring, sister Rita Myers, and brother Mike Garrison. Betty is survived by her loving children: Michael M. Sebring (Roxanne), Cheryl Kalkbrenner (David), and Karen Agee (Greg). She leaves behind a legacy of six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts. Her brothers, Robert Garrison and Richard Garrison, also survive her, offering continuity to the family she held dear. A dedicated nurse, Betty's career was marked by her ascent to the role of surgical nurse at a teaching hospital in Springfield, Missouri, where she met her future husband, Mike. Her commitment to the nursing profession was paralleled by her steadfast faith as an active member of the Holy Roman Catholic Church. Betty played a vital role in youth ministry and various church activities, ensuring that her children received a Catholic education. Betty's life was enriched by her many passions. Betty was a voracious reader. In her quiet times she could consume upwards of 6 major novels a week. She would walk the 1 and a half miles to the yucca library to drop off and pick up her hardback novels. One of her secret passions was chocolate. In most forms from a simple candy to a more decedent Gâteau Opéra she relished her little gifts to herself. Betty also dabbled in painting, writing, was a very good cook, creating masterful holiday feast for her family, knitting, sewing, crochet, gardening, etc.. She loved to travel and when her children were older was able to travel throughout Europe, India and lived in China for a number of years. Her tales of these years were always engaging. Betty was at the same time both very intense and direct and deeply compassionate. She kept her emotions concealed, only shared with her husband Mike most of the time. She had high expectations for herself as well as others, especially her children. She could be surprisingly tender, especially with children, though rare, it was honest. Growing up during the great depression had made her very practical and demanding. She had expectations but it was balanced with love, though it was difficult for her to express her emotions one could find it buried just under the surface. She was a complex woman, full of contradictions and she was beautiful and wonderful mother. We would like to put out a thank you to the caregivers at Orchard Pointe at Arrowhead where Betty stayed for almost 2 years, especially Mousy, Ari and Denise whom our mother had a special fondness for and deep bond. Most of all deep gratitude and acknowledgement to our sister Cheryl who in selfless undertaking spent countless hours over the years tending to Betty's personal, financial and physical well-being. You honored our mother with grace and seemingly inexhaustible compassion. You are a treasure and we are in your debt to your sacrifice. A service to celebrate Betty's remarkable life will be held on November 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of Betty, continuing her legacy of compassion and care. Betty Jane Sebring will be remembered as a beautiful and wonderful mother, a devoted wife, a compassionate nurse, and a cherished friend. Her life was a tapestry of love, woven with threads of strength, grace, and unwavering dedication. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.