Bettye Ruth Williams

Bettye was born in Swink, Oklahoma to Lillian Mae (Walton) and Elmer Bridges on December 10, 1934. The family moved to Bovina, Texas where Bettye attended elementary school ultimately moving to Texico, New Mexico where she and her three siblings, Letha, Kenneth and Claudine graduated from high school. After graduation, Bettye was a cosmetologist until she met her husband, Stanley Edward Williams, on a blind date. Three weeks after they met, Stanley popped the question and they married in August 1954. They enjoyed 62 years of marriage until Stanley's death in 2015. Bettye supported the family's ranching and farming business until they retired. She then had a third career as a rural letter carrier with the United States Post Office. Bettye was a member of the Cattle Capitol Cowbelles, Daughters of the American Revolution and New Mexico Old Time Fiddlers Association and Central Baptist Church. She canned fruits and vegetables, was an avid reader, crafter, seamstress and hostess to any cattle buyer or cowboy her father-in-law, Bud Williams, brought by for lunch or dinner. Bettye and Stanley frequently attended Blue Grass jams in Farwell and were grateful for the friendship of other members. Bettye passed away on March 11th, 2026, while sitting in her favorite spot in the sunshine at La Palmilla Assisted Living in Albuquerque. She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Williams (Mark Winslow) of Albuquerque, Jay Bollinger who is a son in every way but blood, Tracye Stewart who was like family, nieces and nephews and her beloved dog, Buster. She was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley Williams; son Patrick Williams; in-laws Bud and Maude Williams; parents, Lillian and Elmer Bridges; siblings, Letha Mitchell and husband, J.B.; Kenneth and wife Jean; Claudine Setzer and husband Junior. At Bettye's request, no service will take place. Burial will take place in Logan, New Mexico. Arrangements have been entrusted to Muffley Funeral Home, www.muffleyfuneralhome.com, (575)762-4435.