Bette Margaret Willis

Bette Margaret Willis, 77, of Mountain Pine, Arkansas, went home to be with the Lord on September 25, 2025. She was born on July 12, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, to Howard and Marie Thomas.

Bette was preceded in death by her loving parents; her cherished husband and soulmate, Donald Ray Willis Sr.; her dear sister, Lydia Thomas; her brothers-in-law, Larry Willis (Shirley) and Randy Willis (Samantha); and her sister-in-law, Joyce Wagner (Roscoe), and Joyce Copeland. Though her heart bore the loss of loved ones, it remained open, generous, and full of grace.

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her daughter, LaDonna Covey (John); her sons, Donny Willis (Elisha) and Kenny Thomas (Joyce Copeland); her brothers, Howard and Walter Thomas; brother-in-law, Freddy Willis (Mary Jo); sisters, Joyce Mitchell and Diana Maylone (Carl); and sister-in-law, Vicki Keenom (Ricky). Bette was a proud and devoted grandmother to Johnny Covey III (Kirsten), Devin Brady (with girlfriend Tiffany Kolb), KaEsha Willis, Kendra Frias (Manny), Kiara Garner (Eythan), and Joe Willis, Clystie Peeler, and Paige Nicole Howard. Her joy only grew with her thirteen beautiful great-grandchildren, each one a light in her life. Her three loving companions, Maggie May, Ditty Puppy, and Hazel.

Bette was a woman of deep faith, gentle strength, and unwavering love. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a devoted member of Royal Baptist Church, she found strength, purpose, and community in her love for the Lord. She had a special gift for finding beauty in the small things-whether it was a hidden treasure at a thrift store or a cozy afternoon spent knitting something special for a loved one. Her kindness, gentle humor, and thoughtfulness touched everyone who knew her.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at CHI St. Vincent and Arkansas Hospice for their support and care during Bette's final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Bette's honor may be made to organizations close to her heart: Breast Cancer Awareness, Alzheimer's research, or your local animal shelter.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the team at CHI St. Vincent and Arkansas Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Breast Cancer Awareness, Alzheimer's research, and your local animal shelter.