Betty Foraker

Betty Foraker, 92, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on April 28, 1932, to Melvin and Francis Garringer, Betty grew up in Aurora, Missouri, and graduated from Aurora High School in 1951. 

Betty was the beloved wife of Orville Foraker, with whom she shared a wonderful life filled with love and adventure. They enjoyed traveling in their younger years, Friday nights with popcorn and watching episodes of Dallas, and many fishing and camping trips together. For 26 years, Betty and Orville owned and operated Orville and Betty’s Café in Springfield, where they welcomed customers with warm smiles and home-cooked meals. Later, Betty worked at Springfield Rehab Center, bringing her hardworking and caring spirit to those in need. In their later years together they enjoyed watching Cardinals and Chiefs games together.  

Family was at the center of Betty’s world. She cherished time spent with her loved ones, especially during family gatherings and birthdays, which she always made special. She was known for her strong faith, generous heart, and a personality that was both sweet and a little spicy. An avid reader and a talented cook, she also enjoyed her weekly beauty shop visits.  

Betty’s love and kindness will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew her.  

Betty is survived by: her daughter, Linda (Mike) Henson; two sons, Gene (Linda Wehr) Pendergrass, Rick (Jennifer) Pendergrass; ten grandkids; Chad Henson, Thad (Kim) Henson, Jason Henson, Mitzi (Travis) Clark, Cory (Marie Chu) Pendergrass, Amy Rinker, Travis Pendergrass, Kyle (Casey) Pendergrass, Colton (Hailey) Pendergrass, Caden Pendergrass; great grandkids, Shelby Clark, Slade Clark, Mickee Clark, Payton Pendergrass, Isabella Rinker, Letty Rinker, Jackson Pendergrass, Anderson Pendergrass, Zachary Henson, Kyle Henson, Kaylee Henson, Tyler Henson, Kallie Henson, Ashley Henson; two great-great grandkids and many nieces, nephews and friends.  

Betty is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Orville Foraker; two brothers, Junior and Jim Garringer; one sister, Louise Young. 

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, February 24, 2025, at Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, Missouri with Dr. Wade Bridges officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, Missouri and cremation rites will be accorded to Adams Crematory.