Elizabeth Louise "Betty" Hensley

Elizabeth "Betty" Louise Hensley, 73, of Versailles, Missouri, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

She was born on August 13, 1952, in Kansas City, Missouri to Frank "Kermit" and Georgia Browning. Betty attended Raytown South High School, where she was a cheerleader and homecoming queen. She was president of her sorority Delta Zeta, collegiate cheerleader, and graduated summa cum laude from William Jewell College with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. Later, she earned a Master of Library Science at Central Missouri State University. Betty lived a life centered around caring for others, including her family, friends, and school children.

Betty spent 35 years working as an elementary school teacher and librarian, where she was known for creativity, vibrance, and making learning fun and joyful for children of all abilities. She was beloved by her colleagues and students, and she loved them in return. She was awarded Elementary Teacher of Year in 2007 at the Morgan County R-2 School District. Betty stayed in touch with her fellow Kindergarten teachers, whom she loved dearly. She was president of the local chapter of Beta Sigma Phi and greatly cherished those friendships.

Betty was a woman of many talents and hobbies. She was an avid reader, loved completing crossword puzzles, and baking the best cookies in the world. She was always humble, kind, friendly, and never knew a stranger. Her family and friends will fondly remember her beautiful smile that would light up any room. Betty carried joy with her throughout her life; no matter the circumstances, she was always smiling and optimistic.

Betty could always be found on the sidelines of sporting events, proudly cheering on her husband's, children's, and eventually her grandchildren's sports teams. Her husband describes her as his biggest fan, never missing a game or event. She had an innate ability to see the potential in others, providing counsel and encouragement that changed countless lives for the better. Betty will be deeply missed by those who love her.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 52 years, John L. Hensley; her children, John W. (Armina) Hensley and grandson, Zian of Houston, Texas; Sarah (Trent) Miller and grandchildren, Zoe, Xander, Xaven, and Zeke of Centerton, Arkansas; and Laura (Andrew) Farmer and grandchildren, Chloe, Charlie, and Hannah of Rogersville, Missouri. She also leaves behind brothers, Frank Browning and David Browning, and cherished in-laws, Patty Hensley and Carl (Mary) Hensley, as well as several nieces, nephews, and close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kermit and Georgia Browning, and granddaughter, Kailani Hensley.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Monday, March 30th, at the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles with Reverend Jim Randall officiating. Graveside services and interment will follow in the Versailles Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., Monday, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Morgan County Library.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.