Mrs Betty J. Garrett

Betty Jane Garrett passed away on August 29, 2011 due to complications from COPD. She was born in Houston TX on Feb. 13, 1925; her parents were Bill and Adele Hines. She graduated from Rice University in 1944 at the age of 19 and she received her Master Degree from the University of Houston. She was a lifelong learner and completed 69 hours of post graduate work. She taught school in the Pasadena, Texas for 25 years, making a lasting impact on the children she taught and has remained in contact with some for over 25 years.

In 1954, she married Richard C. Garrett and they had 4 children. She was always interested in improving the lives of children first as a teacher and then as a volunteer. She was a Girl Scout Leader, Camp Fire Girl Leader and adult trainer and supporter for 33 years; she was a member of 1st Presbyterian Church, a Sunday School teacher, youth advisor and kindergarten board member. She supported multiple sport organizations including Pony and Colt Baseball.

She was charter member of Rosewyn and a member of Pasadena Order of the Eastern Star and served several times as their Worthy Matron. She enjoyed meeting people and traveled all of the state to attend meetings. She was on the advisory board for W. Mark Sexton Rainbow Girls.

She is survived by her 4 children and their families: Pam and Ernie Simien and their children Cathy, Rett and Sarah; Pat Balmer and Danny Shillings and their son Zac; Sharon and Mike Barnes and their children David, Samantha, William, Candace, and Carl; Bill and Joni Garrett and their children Brett, Brandon, Brady, and Blake. She is survived by her cousin Francis Primeaux, who was more like a sister. She is also survived by multiple nieces and nephews.

She had a special relationship with 4 campfire girls, Barbara, Vanessa, Gayle and Nancy.

She had vitality for life, never attempted anything half heartedly, and loved her family and friends.

She will be missed by all.

Visitation will be held at Forest Park Lawndale on September 1, 2011 from 5pm-8pm. Funeral Services will be on September 2, 2011 at 11a.m at Forest Park Lawndale Main Chapel.

Donations may be made to the Order of Eastern Star Home Endowment Fund, 1111 East Division, Arlington TX. 76011