Betty Lou Jenkins

In Loving Memory of Betty Lou Jenkins

Betty Lou Jenkins (née Johns), age 76, of Austin, Texas, went home to be with the Lord on October 29, 2025.

Betty was born on June 2, 1949, in Monahans, Texas, and grew up on a family farm in Imperial, Texas, where she learned the value of faith, hard work, and family. She was the third child of Thomas and Louella Johns (née Bowman).

She married Jerry Jenkins on May 22, 1967, and though their paths later diverged, Betty devoted herself to providing a steady, loving home for her two sons. She earned an Associate’s degree in accounting and worked for many years as an accountant, known for her diligence and reliability.

Music and travel were among Betty’s greatest joys. She sang around the world, including performances at Carnegie Hall and the White House. Her love of travel took her across the United States, Alaska, and Hawaii, and abroad to Scotland, Russia, China, Iceland, and throughout Europe, where she delighted in experiencing the beauty and culture of the world around her. She also treasured time spent with friends, especially during their lively games of Mexican Train, and found her deepest joy in the company of her family and grandchildren, who were her pride and delight.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Texas Oncology and to her many dear friends and neighbors for their love and support during her illness, and to Oak Hill United Methodist Church for their faithful prayers and kindness.

Betty is lovingly survived by her brother, Tom “Bud” Johns of San Angelo, Texas; her sister, Mary Jenkins and husband Weldon Jenkins, also of San Angelo; her sons, Shane Jenkins and wife Jill Jenkins of Hallsville, Texas, and their children Hunter and Reagan; and Jared Jenkins and wife Melanie Jenkins of Elgin, Texas, and their children Andie and Weston. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Louella Johns.

She is also remembered with love by her niece and nephews.

A celebration of Betty’s life will be held on Saturday, November 8, at 11:00 a.m. at Oak Hill United Methodist Church in Austin, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Oak Hill United Methodist Church or the Austin Civic Chorus, both dear to Betty’s heart.

Because I live, you also will live.

— John 14:19 (NRSV)