Betty Jane McCulley

1936 - 2021

Betty Jane McCulley

Oklahoma City - Betty Jane McCulley, longtime resident of Wichita Falls passed away on Tuesday, February 2nd, 2021, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 84.

Betty is survived by her children: Jerry Speights (Belinda) of Oklahoma City and Judi Zylstra (Tom) of Bellevue, Washington; her grandchildren: Paige Speights, Matt Speights, Lea Gikas and Adam Gikas. She is preceded in death by Wendell McCulley, her loving husband of 43 years.

Betty was born in Russellville, Arkansas, on July 16, 1936, to Ray and Amy Parks. She grew up in Rockwall, Texas, and spent her adult life in Wichita Falls. Graduating from Midwestern State University with a Master's degree in Biology and teaching certification, Betty began her career as an elementary Special Education teacher. She was a natural teacher, bringing zest, warmth and compassion to the classroom, where she created individual lesson plans that focused on each child's unique strengths.

She then turned her passions and creativity to establishing the Willow Tree women's clothing boutique in 1976. For close to 30 years the Willow Tree (named in remembrance of one of her students), was considered the premier boutique, not just for clothing, but for the experience Betty provided to each and every person who walked through the door. Her flamboyant style, energy and infectious laugh were unmistakable.

In retirement, Betty's lifelong love of gardening, learning and teaching inspired her to become a Master Gardener. In 2009, Betty cultivated a group of fellow Master Gardeners who worked together with the Kell House staff and Historic Society to restore the gardens to its original glory that Willie May Kell envisioned with plants from around the world. Betty was also active in the Wichita County Heritage Society, loved to travel, and was an avid reader.

Betty's personality was larger than life, and she easily lit up any room. She was a kind and loyal friend, devoted mom and grandmother. Her unconditional love, ambition, strength and passion for life will continue to be an inspiration to her children and grandchildren.

Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 8, 2021, at Lunn's Colonial Funeral Home with Rev. Tom Medley officiating. Interment will follow at Crestview Memorial Park under the direction of Lunn's Colonial Funeral Home. Though no formal visitation is planned, friends are welcome to pay their respects and sign the register book from Friday until service time at Lunn's.

For those desiring, memorial contributions may be sent to University United Methodist Church, 3405 Taft Blvd., Wichita Falls, Texas 76308.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.lunnscolonial.com.