Betty Lou McCarroll

Obituary

Betty Lou McCarroll ("Granny")

Betty Lou McCarroll, affectionately known as "Granny," passed away peacefully in her home on August 10, 2025. She was 98 years old.

Granny was born on January 1, 1927, to Roy and Lelah (Wills) Carlock in Everton, MO. At just seven months old, she moved with her family to Riverside, CA. As a child, she found joy in the great outdoors, whether climbing trees or making mud pies. She loved helping her father in the garden, a pastime that sparked her lifelong passion for gardening. Betty graduated from Riverside Polytechnic High School in 1944 and soon began working at March Air Force Base, Granny's sharp eye for detail led her to meet Grant McCarroll. It didn't take long for sparks to fly, and they went on to marry shortly after on April 30, 1945 and together they raised five children: Karen "Lynn" White of Twin Falls, ID; Randy (Kim) McCarroll of Darby, MT; Bruce (Unsook) McCarroll of Idaho Falls, ID; Todd (Katherine) McCarroll of Pocatello, ID; and Tracy (Robert) Figueroa of Blackfoot, ID. She had 8 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchilden, & 15 great- great- grandchildren. She also had many "extra kids" that were truly loved as her own Dave, Teresa, Pete, Ray, Robert, Earl, Mary, Cal, Trent and her "rotten kid" Joan, and so many more.

As a mother, Betty was loving yet firm, keeping her children in line with a steady hand and her famous "knuckle ring." She was also a nurse at heart, always there for her kids, whether they had the mumps, measles, or chickenpox. Her nurturing spirit and dedication made her the best mother anyone could ask for. Betty was truly a blessing to her family.

In the early 1970s, Betty and Grant moved to Lava Hot Springs, ID, where she worked at the Lava Lounge as a cook. Her cinnamon rolls, which were so large they covered a dinner plate, became a town hit. She and Grant also worked at the Lava Hot Baths. Betty later became the librarian at the Lava Library, a role she truly cherished. It gave her the chance to connect with the local community, especially the children, whom she enjoyed engaging with. Her love for reading was evident, and over the years, she built an impressive collection of both modern and antique books. Afterward, Betty cooked for the Lava Senior Citizens, and her meals became a cherished tradition among the town's seniors. She always added her own special touch to each dish, making every meal feel like a homemade comfort. She then moved to Pocatello where she cooked for Aspen Crest and later, Idaho Falls working as a cook at Mountain River Hospital in Idaho Falls. She then resided in Darby, MT, in a beautiful cabin, then later moved to her final home of Blackfoot, ID.

She called herself the "Bag Lady," a nickname she wore with pride. Her bags were never unpacked, always ready for the next adventure, no matter the destination. She loved the thrill of setting off at a moment's notice. Whether it was a weekend getaway or an impromptu road trip, a weekend, or a month, she was always prepared-her suitcase was a bag, always the same size no matter how long the trip, a little worn but well-loved, filled with her essentials-a tube of fuchsia lipstick, one of her signature scarves, and a few surprises for whatever came her way. Her family would laugh as they watched her effortlessly pick up and go, knowing she lived by the belief that you never know when the next adventure will call. The "Bag Lady" wasn't just about the bags she carried; it was about the spirit of adventure, the readiness to embrace whatever came next, and the joy of living in the moment. She also always said she can go wherever she wants because her bags were always packed, smiling as she explained they are always hanging out under her eyes.

She had a green thumb and a frugal heart, often "borrowing" flowers or seeds from the nursery that had fallen onto the ground, convincing herself it was justified by her talent for making them thrive. To her, it wasn't stealing-it was simply nurturing nature on a budget.

Betty had a delightful sense of humor and was known for her common-sense wisdom mixed with a sprinkle of sass. She enjoyed many crafts & hobbies. She was an avid reader, especially of history. She had an amazing talent of crocheting. She enjoyed rock collecting & crystal digging with her son Randy. Her creativity knew no bounds. She loved painting on feathers, skulls, antlers, saw blades and horns. She also enjoyed putting together jigsaw puzzles. She participated in the Blackfoot State Fair, earning numerous ribbons for her work & collection of antiques.

Granny was a collector of everything, and her home was like a living museum-overflowing with trinkets, treasures, and oddities from every corner of the world. Every shelf, every drawer, held a little piece of her history, carefully gathered over the years. Each item told a story, and visiting her house was like stepping into a world of memories and curiosities, all handpicked by her unique eye.

Betty Lou was a true fan of Betty Boop. She also had a remarkable collection of frogs. She had a deep affection for animals. She adored dogs and always had one as her companion & travel buddy.

Granny will be missed deeply by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, laughter, creativity, and adventure will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to be a part of her life.

Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Grant, her parents Roy and Lelah Carlock and her sister, Bonnie Lee Flick along with her "extra" children Dave & Pete.

A special Thank you to Dr. Lance Wehrle & Symbii Hospice for their overwhelming support.

The family is under the care of Hawker Funeral Home. Per her wishes, she was cremated. A private ceremony will be held at a later date.