Betty Jean Whitacre

Betty Jean Whitacre, age 90, passed peacefully on April 18, 2022, in Phoenix, Arizona. Betty was born March 4, 1932, in Coldwater (now Avondale), Arizona. She was born to Melvin and Verna Manning. Betty loved to talk about how she grew up on a farm and kept cool during Arizona summers by swimming in irrigation ditches around the property. She attended Arizona State College (now ASU) to study elementary education and it was there that she met Donald Whitacre. They were married in 1952. After graduation, Betty began teaching first grade at Mitchell Elementary School and later kindergarten at Scales Elementary School; both in the Tempe School District. As Donald was also a school teacher, they both had the summers free to travel and go camping. They purchased one of the first cab-over campers on the market and traveled extensively in Arizona and also to many National Parks, taking pictures of their adventures. Their favorite location was the Superstition Mountains. As children arrived (Ardala, Terri and Sam), the camper was upgraded. After retirement, the couple enjoyed traveling on organized tours to such locations as Alaska and Mexico.

Betty was always happy and friendly and could strike up a conversation with anyone. She was also an avid crocheter. Her afghan creations kept many warm and cozy. Betty enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren; that was her favorite activity.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, her four siblings and husband Donald Whitacre. She is survived by her children Ardala Evans (Lee), Terri Drudge (Scott), Samuel Whitacre (Jody); grandchildren Joshua Lennon, Nick Drudge and Chris Whitacre; great grandson Adrian Lennon Evans.

Services will be held Wednesday, April 27th at 10:00 AM at Resthaven / Carr-Tenney Mortuary and Memorial Gardens, 4310 E. Southern Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85042.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your charity of choice.