Bettie Lou Martin

Bettie Lou Martin passed away peacefully on the morning of March 28, 2026, in Richmond, Missouri. She was 97 years old. Known as a loyal caregiver, Bettie Lou lived a life of service and left a lasting impact on her friends, family, and community.

Born on May 18, 1928, to Robert and Mildred Schooler, Bettie Lou was the oldest of two children.

A lifelong resident of the Hickory Grove community, Bettie Lou grew up with James Benjamin Martin. On January 23, 1948, the two married. Together, Bettie Lou and J.B. began a great adventure. They traveled around the country, including countless trips to Alaska, and made friends everywhere they went. But throughout their adventurous lives, their farm in Hickory Grove was their home base. She and J.B. loved their farm and took great pride in the land. Their farm was a refuge for many a stray cat or dog in need of a home. It also became a hub for their growing family.

Bettie Lou's career was led by service. After attending Central Methodist College in Fayette, she taught at rural schools in Ray County. In 1967, Bettie Lou began working for the State of Missouri's Department of Social Services, a role she held for her entire career.

Service also led Bettie Lou's personal life. She was an active member of the Hickory Grove Baptist Church, a great friend and neighbor, and the consummate mother and grandmother. She was also a wonderful cook and host, known for her delicious sugar cookies and banana bread, her card-playing skills, and her great sense of humor.

Bettie Lou was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Mildred Schooler; her husband, James Benjamin Martin; and her daughter, Linda Emley. She is survived by her sister, Dorothy Beard; two children, Mike Martin and his wife, LeaAnn of Smithville, Missouri; and Jane Flexter and her husband, Gregory of Indian Hill, Ohio. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please support Harvesters Food Bank of Kansas City, Missouri. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M., with services to follow at 11:00 A.M. Inurnment will be in Hickory Grove Cemetery. Please remember to share your memories of Bettie Lou with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.