Betty Jo Howard Barnes, 94, of Duncan, Oklahoma, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, November 20th, at 10:00 a.m. at Western Heights Baptist Church in Duncan, Oklahoma. Rev. John Croy and Rev. Jim Wilson will officiate. Betty will be buried at Hope Community Cemetery next to her husband, Frank Barnes.

Betty was born on January 24, 1930, to Nellie and Herbert Howard in Duncan, Oklahoma. She graduated from Marlow High School and went on to earn a degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Betty married Frank Barnes on October 14, 1951, and together, they shared a lifelong commitment to ministry. They raised three children-James, Judy, and Jean-with love and faith.

Throughout their ministry, Betty and Frank served in churches and communities across the country, beginning in Hammon, Oklahoma, and continuing to Kellogg, Idaho; Spokane, Washington; Wenatchee, Washington; and Shady Groves, Foster, Oklahoma. Betty's dedication to the Lord was evident in every aspect of her life, as she worked tirelessly alongside Frank, serving in various ministries and supporting the local church.

Betty had a passion for life and a heart for others. She was an avid gardener, enjoyed canning, and loved playing softball. She was a devoted mother and enthusiastic supporter, always cheering on her children in their basketball and softball games. Betty also had a talent for music, performing in choirs, playing the piano, and singing in church. She was a dedicated Sunday School teacher, a choir member, and an active participant in her church community. In her spare time, she was a fan of the Spokane Indians Baseball team and enjoyed playing games with family and friends.

Betty is survived by her three children: James and his wife, Janie, of Brownwood, Texas; Judy and her husband, Rick Gregory, of Jackson, Mississippi; and Jean and her husband, Don Kelso, of Big Spring, Texas. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Lora Dell Howard, seven grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Barnes; her parents, Nellie and Herbert Howard; and her siblings, W.H. Howard, Troy Bob Howard, Blanche Jorgensen, Eugene Howard, and Loretta Pilgrim.

Betty's life was a testament to her unwavering faith. She often said that the Lord had been faithful to her throughout her entire life, a sentiment that will be cherished by her family and all who knew her.

Betty Barnes's grandchildren will be pallbearers. The family requests memorial donations be made to your local church or to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, a cause close to Betty's heart. Condolences may be sent to the family to Whitt Funeral Home whitt@whittfh.com.