Bette Ruth Butterworth, 94, of Guthrie, Oklahoma passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025. She was born November 5, 1931, in Guthrie to Thomas and Ruth (Cotteral) Butterworth and spent nearly her entire life in the town she loved.

Bette was brilliant, independent, and unmistakably herself. She was a lifelong learner, earning her bachelor's degree in speech from Northwestern University in Chicago in 1953 and later completing her master's degree in English from Central State University (now the University of Central Oklahoma) in 1968.

A true lover of the arts, Bette was a stage actress who toured with the Kaleidoscope Players performing Shakespearean works. She was deeply involved in the early days of the Pollard Theatre in Guthrie and remained a devoted supporter of the arts throughout her life. Literature was one of her great loves; she was an avid reader who rarely missed a day without the Wall Street Journal or The New York Times.

Bette also loved playing bridge, lively discussion, and staying engaged with the world around her. She was a former member of First United Presbyterian Church in Guthrie and built a life rich with friendships, interests, and purpose.

Though she never married and had no children, Bette's life was full. Her pets were the love of her life, and she cherished them deeply. Bette lived exactly as she chose: fully, thoughtfully, and on her own terms. She leaves behind a legacy of intellect, creativity, and quiet strength.

Bette is survived by her cousin Barbara Coen and daughter Allison; and her longtime friends: Carol Stiles, Mike and Liz Sterkel, Lyndell Fitzgerald, Melanie Jenkinson, Leslie Branch, and the family of Don Coffin. Heartfelt gratitude is extended to those who lovingly cared for Bette, especially Joann and Patty Martin, Angela Collier, Linda Witherspoon, and Kassidy Wendfield.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Summit View Cemetery (1808 N. Pine St., Guthrie, OK 73044).