Betty LaVerne Wimpy

Betty LaVerne (Bates) Wimpy, a beloved mother, devoted wife, and faithful friend, entered into the presence of the Lord on October 13, 2024, peacefully at her home in Little Elm, Texas. Born on September 9, 1941 in Hobbs, New Mexico, she was the daughter of the late Ernest K. Bates and Lillian E. (Stowers) Martin.

Betty was preceded in death by her loving husband, Charles E. Wimpy; her brother, Ernest Kendall “Ken” Bates; and her nephew, Kendall E. Bates.

She is survived by her two cherished sons, Michael Wayne Wimpy and his wife, Amy, of Lewisville, TX, and Jeffery Wimpy of Little Elm, TX; her brother, Don Bates and his wife, Carol, of Mineola, TX; and a host of nephews, nieces, and extended family members who loved her dearly.

As the daughter of a pastor and evangelist, Betty’s family moved to Albuquerque, NM, in 1949 to establish a new church, Highland Assembly of God. As a young child, Betty formed an inseparable bond with her mother, who encouraged all her kids to serve the Lord with their whole lives. Betty’s faith and dedication to the Lord was fashioned at an early age and became the center of her life. Alongside her brother Don (“Donnie” as he was known then) and her best friend and future sister-in-law, Carol, they formed a beloved musical trio that shared their talents in churches and Christian events all over the city. The three of them shared a special relationship from a young age that remained strong throughout their lives. Betty graduated from Highland High School in 1959 and entered the workforce at Southwestern Bell Telephone working in the accounting department. It was in Albuquerque that she met and married her husband, Charles “Chuck” Wimpy, in 1960.

After Chuck’s service in the U.S. Army, they welcomed two sons into their lives, Michael Wayne in 1964 and Jeffery Lee four years later. Betty’s heart was full as she dedicated herself to her family, nurturing them with love and joy.

In 1969, the Wimpy family moved to Aztec, NM, where they created lasting memories against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Summers were filled with camping, fishing, and laughter, as they played games, learned to ride motorcycles, and Betty read the Hardy Boys mystery books around the campfire at night. She wholeheartedly supported her sons in all their endeavors and stood by Chuck in his auto repair business and his campaign for Mayor of Aztec. She became a passionate bowler and served as President of the Farmington Bowling League while also working at various local establishments, including a dress shop, a chiropractor's office, and spent several years in the Public Works Department at San Juan County.

In 1988, the family relocated to Arlington, Texas, where they became active members of Church of Abundant Life and later Shady Grove Church in Grand Prairie. While they loved their church family and enjoyed living close to Chuck’s brother, Bill, and his family, Betty and Chuck eventually returned to New Mexico in 1995, settling in Edgewood, where she was encouraged by a friend to obtain her New Mexico real estate license. She loved it. Her real estate career blossomed into a fulfilling journey that lasted over 25 years.

In 2002, Betty faced the unimaginable loss of Chuck, who passed away unexpectedly in his sleep late in the evening. Two years later, she returned to Texas, landing first in Plano and then settling in Little Elm, where she lived for the next eighteen years. Betty thrived in her real estate career and soon found a loving community at Gateway Church.

By the time she celebrated her eightieth birthday, Betty faced health challenges that included a small, undetected stroke in 2023. Over the next year, she experienced several more mini-strokes that ultimately led to her passing in October 2024. Diagnosed with vascular dementia, she died at home under hospice care, surrounded by her family, who lovingly ushered her into the presence of the Lord.

Throughout her life and every place she lived, Betty formed deep and lasting friendships that brought her joy and enriched the lives of those around her. She was known for her laughter and sense of humor, generous spirit, and above all, her unwavering love for Jesus. A true worshipper, she inspired many to serve the Lord with the same passion she embodied.

Betty made an indelible mark on the lives of all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed. May she rest in God’s presence, as his good and faithful servant. And may her lasting memory be a blessing to her family and friends. Your presence will always remain strong in our hearts, mom.