Betty Kathryn Gillespie

Betty Kathryn Gillespie, 83, of Avilla, Arkansas, departed her loving family on September 16, 2022, from complications following a surgical procedure.

Betty was born in Fordyce, Arkansas, on May 4, 1939, to Vestula and James Samuel Taylor Sr. She attended school in Princeton and graduated from high school in 1957. She continued her education and earned a degree in nursing while she and her family were in California. Betty would return to Arkansas for a short time before marrying her husband, Jerry Lee Gillespie, and moving back to California. During her life, Betty and Jerry were able to travel and see more of the world. Their list included destinations like Australia, Europe and the Caribbean. In her later years, Betty developed a strong desire to move back home. She returned home to Arkansas a year before she passed, and reconnected with family members and friends.

Betty was mother to Elizabeth Farmer (Gillespie) and Jerry Gillespie. Loving grandmother to Korrie Farmer, Robert Gillespie, Jack Gillespie, and John Gillespie. And proud great grandmother to Atticus Turner, Scout Turner, Harper Gillespie, and Baby Girl Steele (due in October).

Betty dedicated her life to being a fantastic and wonderful mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and person. She was a fixture at ALL of her children’s activities. Betty opened her home to extended family members and friends, supporting them through the many passions and difficulties of their lives. As a nurse and occupational therapist, she extended the same compassion, caring and commitment to her patients. Her mission in life was to improve the lives of others.

Betty was predeceased by her husband Jerry L. Gillespie, parents Vestula and James Taylor, and brother James Samuel Taylor Jr.

Visitation will be Friday, September 30th from 6PM until 8PM at Benton Funeral Home in Fordyce. Graveside services will be held at Tanyard Cemetery on Saturday, October 1, 2022, at 11AM. To sign the online register visit www.bentonfuneralhome.net .