Elizabeth Matilda Bexten

Elizabeth Morrow “Betty” Bexten went to be with our Lord on June 25, 2014, while a resident at Clare Bridge of San Antonio. Betty was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on May 3, 1927. A graduate of The University of Pennsylvania, she married her loving husband, Keith, on May 30, 1950. After residing in Philadelphia, the couple relocated their family to San Antonio, Texas, in 1960, where Betty began her career in Education. Starting as an English teacher at Jefferson High School then on to Edison, Betty’s long term goal was to be an Administrator. On August 25, 1967, she received her Master of Education from Trinity University which was the first step toward achieving her goal. She was among the first females to be appointed Principal, a position she held at Longfellow Junior High School. Later, after working for the San Antonio Independent School District for more than 16 years, Betty Bexten became the first woman to hold the position of Area Superintendent for the district. Throughout her distinguished career, Betty raised the bar in the field of Education. She created and implemented programs pertaining to the arts and literature and introduced them into the curriculum of the schools she supervised. The responsibility she felt toward the betterment of the students and schools she was assigned was exemplified in her unwavering support, creativity and dedication to her work.

After retirement, Betty found fulfillment and joy in the lives of her grandchildren. From play dates, swim parties to coast trips and school events, she was always there with love and support. Her time was also productively spent as an active member and leader at Windcrest United Methodist Church where she and her husband, Keith, formed lasting friendships. She thoroughly enjoyed reading, napping and needlepoint.

Betty was predeceased by her wonderful husband of 51 years, Keith, and by her son-in-law, Patrick Niedorf. She is survived by her two daughters and their families: Jane Niedorf and her children, Patrick Niedorf and his son Aiden, Ben Niedorf, Becky Davis and her husband Richard and their children Charlotte, Chloe and Johnny, Kelly Niedorf and her fiancé Josh Trawinski; Beth Wilbanks and her husband Dr. Robert D. Wilbanks and their children, Haley, Grace, and Seth of Orange, Virginia; brother-in-law, Col. Richard C. Bexten his wife Judy and their daughter Jacqueline and her daughter Avery.

As an educator Betty will be remembered with admiration and respect. As a Mother and Grandmother she will be remembered with love and affection forever. The family would like to extend their sincerest thanks to the staff at Clare Bridge of San Antonio for the wonderful care and kindness our Mother received as a resident. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Friday, July 11, 2014 at Windcrest United Methodist Church, 8101 Midcrown Drive (78239). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Windcrest United Methodist Church. Please visit www.funerariadelangelroyakers.com for online tributes.