In Memory

Betty Thomas (Humphrey)

Betty Thomas (Humphrey)

Betty Humphrey, aged 69, of Russellville, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, November 13, 2023, surrounded by her loving husband and children. Born on October 26, 1954, in Hopkinsville, KY, she was the cherished daughter of John Alvin Thomas and Dorothy Ora (Morgan) Thomas. She spent her early childhood on a tobacco farm in Guthrie, KY, and in 1963, the family moved to Amarillo, Texas, when she was in the 3rd grade. She graduated from Tascosa High School in Amarillo, TX, in 1972, and attended Harding College in Searcy, where she met Jim Bob Humphrey on the first day of his freshman year. They fell over the moon in love and were married on April 23, 1976, and celebrated their union by spending the weekend floating down the Buffalo River. Betty graduated with a BA in Special Education in 1978. She was actively involved in her three young children’s education, sporting events, and various organizations. In 1985, she served as Co-President of the Sequoyah PTA and spearheaded the project that brought the first computers to the Russellville School District and served as Sequoyah’s Computer Lady, teaching introductory classes using eight newly acquired Apple 2E computers (64kb RAM). She also convinced the Russellville School District Superintendent to allow the installation of new outdoor water fountains on the playground. Betty was a lifetime member of Russellville Junior Auxiliary, serving as chair of the Child Welfare Committee in the 1990’s and volunteered delivering Meals on Wheels to the elderly. Betty was a devoted member of West Side Church of Christ for 42 years and was involved in many of the ministries, including teaching the 3rd-grade Sunday School class, WS Women’s ministry projects, and participated in seven mission trips, including Ukraine and medical missions to Guyana, South America. She and Jim Bob shared a deep love for the young people in West Side’s youth group and were actively involved in their activities and Bible classes for more than three decades. Betty served as the housing chair for many years for the annual Christeens Youth Forum and was active in the Texas Big Three Bible Bowl Program. Her interests included quilting, gardening, RV camping, and reading books, but her true passion was spending time with family. Her zest for life and love of people enriched the lives of those around her. Betty's legacy of love, generosity, and dedication to family and community service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. Survivors include her husband of 47 years, Jim Bob Humphrey of Russellville; two daughters, Elizabeth Humphrey of New Orleans, LA, and Jennifer Walker (Bryan) of Alma; son, James Humphrey (Brandy) of Russellville; three grandsons, Landon, Oliver, and Max; granddaughter, Makenzie Kate; three step-grandchildren, Morgan (John), Aidan, and Mason; step-great-granddaughter, Matilda Walker; sister, Ann Wilder (Larry); two nephews, Aaron Wilder (Jamie) and Anson Wilder; great-nephews, Parker and Boden; devoted golden doodle, Fred; and numerous cousins and extended family. The funeral Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at Humphrey Chapel in Russellville. Burial will take place at Center Valley Memorial Gardens in Russellville, officiated by Chris Buxton and Aristides “Aris” Ortiz. Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at the funeral home. Active Pallbearers are Paul Senn, Randy Lamp, Jamie Sorrells, Patrick Crosby, and her nephews, Aaron Wilder and Anson Wilder. Honorary Pallbearers include Paula Tarte, Steve and Nina Floyd, Glenn and Brenda Holmes, Wanda Reed, Judy Lamb, Candy Reed, Gaye Warr, and Jennifer Hurt. Memorials may be made to the Russellville Junior Auxiliary Child Welfare Program, PO Box 1011, Russellville, AR 72811. You can find the online obituary and guestbook at humphreyfuneral.com.