Betty Jane Semler

Betty Jane Semler age 98 of Fredericksburg, IA died Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Linn Haven Rehab & Healthcare in New Hampton.
Funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 10, 2025, at Hillcrest Baptist Church in Fredericksburg with Rev. Scott Smith officiating. Friends may greet the family an hour prior to the service at the church.
Betty Jane Semler, born to Doc and Ethel (Atkinson) McKindley, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2025, at the age of 98. Born on November 8, 1926, in Christiansburg, Virginia, Betty's life journey brought her final days being spent in the loving care of Linn Haven, New Hampton, Iowa.
Betty's early education concluded with her eighth-grade graduation, after which she embarked on a career that demonstrated her resilience and dedication. For many years, she worked as a waitress in Washington, D.C., where she served numerous patrons, including J. Edgar Hoover. Despite the long hours and challenges, such as Hoover's lengthy visits that limited her opportunity to earn extra tips, Betty remained steadfast and cheerful in her service.
Beyond her work in the restaurant, Betty was a craftsman at heart. With skilled hands and a creative spirit, she crocheted, made stuffed animals, and constructed wooden toys, all of which she gave to family members or sold with pride. These handmade treasures no doubt brought as much joy to those who received them as they did to Betty in their creation.
Betty's love for the outdoors was evident to anyone who visited her home. Her renowned garden was a testament to her green thumb, with vibrant flowers and bountiful vegetables also nourished her family. She was an embodiment of the saying that the earth laughs in flowers, and her laughter was echoed in every bloom and harvest. Her dedication to her faith and community was unwavering. Betty was an active member of the Hillcrest Baptist Church, where she found strength and solace.
A strong and independent woman, Betty took pride in maintaining her home and could be found mowing her grass well into her nineties. It was only after a house fire in April 2022 that she moved in with her daughter Patsy until she moved to Linn Haven. Betty's legacy is carried on by her loving family. She was the cherished matriarch, the last surviving member of her generation, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience.
As we bid her farewell, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the enduring impact she made on the world. Her spirit, like her beloved garden, will continue to flourish in the hearts of those she touched. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on forever.
Betty is survived by her sons Ralph Kingsbury of Dayton Ohio, Ronald Kingsbury of Haven Hill, Florida; daughter Patsy Eichenberger of Fredericksburg, Iowa. Five grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, five great great grandchildren. Nieces and nephews and other cousins.
Preceding Betty are her parents, son Robert Lee Kingsbury, daughter in law Della Kingsbury.
Hugeback Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in Fredericksburg has been entrusted with arrangements.
(563) 237-6212