Betty was a first cousin to me (Shelia Wheeler Rountree) on my mother?s side of the family, her mother Phyllis and my mother Josie being sisters. Genealogy was a great enthusiasm of Betty Jo?s, and she served as the family historian, researching multiple family trees. We met Betty in Arkansas many times to research family grave sites and trade genealogy information. We always had a good time. Terry and I thought a lot of Betty Jo, she was a very admirable person and was involved in many charities and other worthy causes. After our retirement in 1999, we visited her when traveling in an RV several times, and really got to know her better as a result. Betty Jo and Aunt Phyllis made us feel welcome and we loved talking about old times and reminiscing about family memories. They had lots of stories and family facts to share. I posted on facebook to let my family know about Betty?s passing. My niece Denise Jo Sodowsky posted this: ?I remember when we came back from Okinawa and stayed at Great Aunt Phyllis’ house. Grandma (Josie Wheeler) had flown out to meet us. We had a wonderful time. It was a little frightening when Great Aunt Phyllis drove on the highway. The top speed limit in Okinawa was 30 mph and we were going a lot faster than 70 mph on the highway. I remember Betty being there and their kind hospitality.? (Denise is my sister Lillie May?s girl.) Most of my family who would remember Betty are deceased, also. Betty will be remembered in our hearts forever. May God bless her family. Terry and Shelia Rountree
