Betty Jean Gibbons

Born in Herrin, Illinois, to Napoleon B. Cluck and Della Braden Cluck, Betty was one of nine children and the last of her siblings to leave this earth.

On December 6, 1947, she married the love of her life, Chester “Chet” Ray Gibbons. They shared 61 years of marriage filled with family, ministry, travel and adventure. Their faith even took them to the Holy Land, where Betty rode a camel—a picture that still makes us smile.

Betty and Chet had one son, James Ray. She missed both Chet and James deeply, and we take great comfort in knowing that a long-awaited reunion has finally come.

Betty loved the Lord. Her faith was woven throughout her life, and even as her eyesight failed and she needed more help, she remained unmistakably Betty—independent, determined, strong-minded and quite capable of letting you know exactly how things ought to be done.

Betty was a wonderful cook and baker. If she offered you a cookie, taking one wasn’t enough. You needed two—one for each hand. It was Betty’s rule, and arguing with Betty about a rule Betty had made was rarely productive.

She loved conversation, laughter, country music and the people who became family whether or not they shared her name. Betty was funny, feisty, faithful and deeply loved.

Betty’s final days were filled with music, conversations, prayers and love for a woman who had been part of so many lives for so many years. We are especially grateful to the doctors, nurses and staff at MultiCare, and to the caregivers at The Terraces at Summitview, who cared for Betty with kindness and dignity.

A Graveside Service will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at West Hills Memorial Park at 10:00 AM.