Betty Lou Wilson, 85, St. Joseph, Missouri, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on September 16, 2024. She was born on July 4, 1939, in Clinton County, Missouri, Betty was a true firecracker who brought light and love into the lives she touched.
She married Gordon W. Wilson, Sr., on October 22, 1955, who survives her at the home they shared for 66 years.
She is survived by her children, Gordon Wilson, Jr. and Barbara Smith; grandchildren, Jeannie Knowles and Melissa Carstensen; and numerous great-grandchildren through great-great-great-grandchildren: Josh Smith, Shauna Smith, Richard Saunders, Kaitlyn Saunders, Kaleigh Saunders, Drake Stevenson, Trenton Marschel, Kyle Knowles, Brandon Knowles, Ryan Wilson, Brandon Wilson, Julie Robison, Hayden Wilson, Braxon Wilson, Brittany Wilson, Addalyn Robison, Brayden Larabee, Paisley Knowles, Lincoln Saunders, and Emberley Saunders.
Betty dedicated 24 years of service to the Stetson Hat Company. She continued to share her nurturing care by helping to raise her grandchildren, a role she cherished deeply. Betty's generous heart also extended to her community involvement; she was an active volunteer at Youth Alliance, where she touched many lives.
She had a love for animals that was as boundless as her heart. An avid card player, she also enjoyed collecting angel figurines and spending quality time with her wide circle of grandchildren. Known for her feisty nature, Betty was a woman with a dynamic spirit, quick to laugh and always ready to lend a hand or an ear.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, William and Nannie Gilmore; stepfather, Ivan Clark; sister, Mary Herod; brother, Billie Gilmore; half-brothers, Clayton and Mervin Gilmore; grandson, Michael Wilson; and a great-great-grandchild, Carter Smith.
Farewell Services and Public Livestream 10:00 A.M. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service.
