Betty Jean Peterson died peacefully at home on October 29. She was 88. Betty was the oldest daughter of Alva and Jean Langley and grew up in Oklahoma City. She attended Northeast High School and the former Chickasha College for Women.
Betty married Richard Peterson in 1952 and they had five children before divorcing in 1971. Betty raised their children while studying interior design. She opened a design studio in Stillwater and headed her own drapery business in Oklahoma City. She later worked for the State of Oklahoma where she used her creativity to design welcome centers and lodges statewide.
Having a special needs child prompted Betty to become a pioneer in establishing special needs curriculum in Oklahoma schools. As a longtime member of the First Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, Betty embraced her Christianity, making it the center of her life.
She was charismatic and outspoken, with a determined grit and huge heart. She is loved and missed by so many.
Betty is survived by her three children: Trish/Patti Sutterfield of Atlanta, Bob Peterson of Colorado and Dick Peterson of Stillwater; her sister and brother-in-law, Peggy and Leon Elliott of Tuttle and several nieces, nephews and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Alva and Jean Langley, her brother Ted H Owens, her daughter Peggy Peterson and son John Peterson.
Viewing was 9 am Wednesday followed by funeral services at the First Baptist Church of Oklahoma City. Graveside services are family only. In lieu of flowers please make donations in Betty’s name to the First Baptist Church of OKC 1201 N Robinson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73103.
