Bette Joanne Williams, 88, of Ottumwa, died at 8:59 a.m. February 27, 2025 at Vista Woods Care Center in Ottumwa.
She was born November 12, 1936 in Ottumwa to Arthur M. and Clara Merle Darner Johnson. After her mother’s death when Bette was only 3, her father married Margarette Jayne Johnson in 1940. Bette married Thomas Williams October 15, 1955 and he preceded her in death January 17, 2008.
A 1954 graduate of Ottumwa High Schol, Bette attended Iowa Success school and enjoyed working on the class reunions, collecting information for many years.
She worked for John Morrell and Co., Motor Vehicle Enforcement with the of Iowa DOT Motor Vehicle Division, Home Oil Co. and was a substitute secretary and teacher’s aide for the Ottumwa school system.
Bette was a member of Plymouth Congregational Church where she was treasurer of the Sunday School. She was also a member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, receiving a 50 year membership award in 2013, a member of Ottumwa Area Fellowship of Churches, AARP and volunteered for Hospice. She enjoyed knitting and reading.
Surviving are her sons, Jeffrey Williams and Daniel (Crystal) Williams both of Ottumwa; 9 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; sister, Phyllis (David) Runnells of Ottumwa; and many sisters of Beta Sigma Phi.
She was preceded in death by her parents and step-mother; son, Michael Williams; and great-grandson, Emmet Williams.
Her body has been cremated.
Visitation with the family present to greet friends will be 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, March 7th at Reece Funeral Home.
Graveside services and inurnment will be 10 a.m. Saturday, March 8th at Memorial Lawn Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Hospice Serving Davis and Wapello Counties.
