Betty Grace Schafer
Betty Grace Schafer, 83, of Sullivan, Missouri passed away peacefully on December 12, 2023, in Owensville, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 12, 1940, in Oxford, Alabama, to Walker and Marie (Horton) Snow.
Betty's early years were spent in Anniston, Alabama, where she attended local schools and graduated in 1958. Her career began at Mallory's Laundry Mat and Curry's Drug Store, where she not only served her community but also met the love of her life, Fred. Their romance blossomed over chocolate malts as Fred, stationed at Fort McClellan, would visit the drug store to pen letters home. Soon they were united in marriage on September 6, 1962.
Upon returning to Missouri in the fall of 1963, Betty briefly worked at Midwest Shoe and spent evenings at the I44 Restaurant. Her greatest challenge and triumph came when she and Fred longed for a child. After much prayer, they were blessed with their miracle baby, Sheila, a testament to Betty's unwavering faith. The family settled in Japan, Missouri, on the family farm, where Betty and Fred devoted themselves to raising Sheila in a home filled with love and faith.
As Sheila grew, Betty's hard working and determined spirit shone through when she became a self-employed house cleaner. Her dedication led her to service many local families' homes, and she became quite successful in her endeavors.
Betty's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a dedicated member of the First Baptist Church of Sullivan. Her interests were as varied as they were heartfelt; she enjoyed crocheting, knitting, cooking, and baking. Betty's devotion to her family was unwavering, and she cared for her siblings through life's trials with grace and compassion.
Known for her big sense of humor, Betty often found herself the recipient of gentle teasing from her husband, Fred, which she took in stride. She held a special place in her heart for Fred's side of the family, embracing them as if they were her own blood.
Betty is survived by her loving daughter, Sheila Edwards and husband Jeffrey of Sullivan, Missouri; a grandson, Jeremiah Slankard and significant other, Cassanndra Matthews and her son, Oliver all of St. Charles, Missouri; a brother, Dan Snow of Greenville, SC; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Schafer; a daughter in infancy, Pamela; her parents, Walker and Marie Snow; five brothers: Bobby, James, Ernest “Johnny”, Charlie and Larry Snow; three sisters: Ruth Forsythe, Shirley Knight, Jane Snow; her special in-laws, Otto and Alice Schafer.
Funeral Services will be 12 PM, Friday, December 15, 2023, at the Eaton Funeral Home with Pastor Chester Lahmann officiating. Interment will follow at the Old Argo Cemetery.
Visitation will be 10 AM – 12 PM, Friday, December 15, 2023, at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan.
Friends may send their online condolences to Betty’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Sullivan.
All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.