Bettie Ann Patterson

Bettie Ann Patterson, 84

Bettie Ann Patterson of Okeechobee, Florida, born January 6, 1942, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, after a short illness. She was born in Brandon, Mississippi to Johnny Tallie Polk and Clara E. (Floyd) Polk. She was the fourth of six children. A woman of deep faith and boundless compassion, Bettie dedicated her life to service in numerous meaningful roles. In addition to the difficult (and occasionally chaotic) work of raising three sons, who somehow survived her expert nursing care and her even more expert "don't make me come over there" warning. Bettie also served as a special needs elementary teacher, a pastor's and missionary's wife, and an Registered Nurse in multiple emergency rooms. Her international work included serving as clinic director and midwife in Lesotho, Africa and as nurse supervisor and cardiac certified Registered Nurse at Children's Hospital of Bethany, Oklahoma.

In 2001, Bettie, along with her husband Ladell, co-founded The Bana Project of Lesotho, Africa, an initiative providing food and education to orphaned and vulnerable children, a legacy of love and care that continues to impact lives today. Bettie's warmth, strength, and unwavering commitment to helping others will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory be a blessing and an inspiration-and may we all be blessed with just a fraction of her courage and energy the next time life hands us a challenge (or three rowdy sons).

She was preceded in death by brothers, Bob Polk (1968) and Frank Polk (2023); and sister, Janette Solis (2023).

Bettie is survived by her devoted husband, Allen Ladell Patterson of Okeechobee, Florida; sisters, Linda Effertz of Texas and Sue (Eddie) Thomason of Washington; sons, Allen Patterson of Okeechobee, Florida, Greg (Pam) Patterson of Port Charlotte, Florida, and Roger (Faith) Patterson of McCalla, Alabama; and many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held to honor Bettie on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 2 pm at the Okeechobee Presbyterian Church, 312 N Parrott Ave, Okeechobee, FL 34972.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be given for "The Bana Project" and directed through Okeechobee Presbyterian Church.

Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972.