Betty Zak Perry

Betty was born on January 26th, 1939 in Quitman, Texas to loving parents Gene and Delmer Crim who instilled in her the values of love and dedication to family and friends that she carried with her throughout her life. Betty attended Monterey High School in Lubbock where she crossed paths with the legendary Buddy Holly. As a majorette in the school band, Betty's grace and beauty captured the hearts of those around her. She attended Texas Tech University which not only led to an education but also brought into her life two important men - Stanley and Charles.

In 1964 Betty married Stanley Zak and together they adopted their son John from The Gladney Center for Adoption. Their family grew unexpectedly when Betty discovered she was pregnant with their daughter Elizabeth shortly after adopting John. This unexpected turn of events only deepened the love within their family as they moved from Lubbock to Houston following Liz's birth. After being relocated with Stan’s job for a short stint in Southern California, which she called an extended two-year vacation, living right near the beach, the family moved back to Houston again.

Betty became actively involved in the Junior League of Houston and dedicated herself to volunteering at St. Francis Episcopal Day School where both John and Liz were students. In 1982 the family relocated once again - this time settling down in Dallas where Betty embarked on a new chapter selling real estate. Her hard work paid off when she was named Rookie of the Year; it was just one testament among many that spoke volumes about her determination and passion for everything she pursued.

After years as a successful realtor, she retired from Coldwell Banker in 2005 to spend more time with her grandchildren—Jared Zak and Grant Snodgrass and later Zak Snodgrass. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to being present for them every step of their lives. John and Liz have laughed that when the grandsons came along they took a back seat – the very back seat!

Following Stan’s passing in 1993—a loss that deeply impacted all who knew him—Betty found solace reconnecting with a long-time friend from Lubbock, Charles Perry, whom she married two years later. Together they shared countless cherished memories, traveling often to Lake Tahoe and to San Diego during their retirement.

A woman whose heart overflowed with love for others has left behind an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to have known or been touched by her presence. Betty had a razor-sharp wit and a bigger-than-life personality. She was a loyal and true friend, maintaining close friendships from her years in Lubbock, California, and Houston.

Betty is survived by her husband of 28 years, Charles Perry; son John Zak of Dallas; daughter Elizabeth Zak Snodgrass (Greg) of Plano; and grandsons Jared Zak, Grant Snodgrass, and Zak Snodgrass; and numerous loving cousins in the Brown family.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, June 28th at St. Andrew Methodist Church in Plano, Texas at 3 pm. A private graveside service earlier that morning will be held near Quitman, Texas. The family kindly requests any memorials be made to The Gladney Center for Adoption, in honor of John Zak and Grant and Zak Snodgrass, or to St. Andrew Methodist Church-Student Ministry, as tributes honoring both past generations while supporting future ones.

As we mourn our loss let us remember how much richer our lives are because we had someone like Betty to know and love...and how much brighter heaven now shines having gained such a beautiful soul amongst its midst.