Betty Jean Evans was born on February 22, 1937, in Council Grove, Kansas, to Herbert Albert and Iva Madeline (Hudson) Pate. She passed away on September 6, 2026, in Guthrie, Oklahoma, at the age of 89.

Much of Betty's life was spent in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Betty was employed for many years in manufacturing for Walter Hagen Golf. She moved back to her childhood hometown, Herington, Kansas in the early mid-90's, following her husband's death. In 2016 she moved from Herington to Edmond, Oklahoma to be near family where she made her home for the last ten years.

Betty had a gentle spirit and found contentment in life's quiet, everyday moments. Betty was known as a family caretaker and, with 5 siblings, was always there to assist with financial or material help over the years, even taking in her 3 younger sisters during their teens. She had a heart for people and animals in need and was also known to take in a stray kitty or two when she was more able to care for them. She loved feeding the squirrels and birds at her apartment, always making sure her little outdoor friends were cared for. In recent years she enjoyed relaxing with her favorite television programs and in more active years loved traveling with her husband creating special memories along the way. Her kind heart and love for her family and friends will be remembered by everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

Betty is survived by her loving sisters, Kay Jacobs, Mary Colegrove and husband Harold, and Shirley Clay and husband Bill; as well as 14 beloved nieces and nephews throughout Michigan, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and Illinois. Though miles may have separated them at times, the love they shared always kept them close.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard "Dick" Evans, who passed away in 1991; a sister, Irene Baker and a brother, Jim Pate.

A private family service will be held at a later date.