Betty Jean Hester

Betty Jean Hester, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother,  passed away on December 25, 2023, in Winnsboro, Texas. She was born on September 10, 1935, in Lockesburg, Arkansas to Allie and Hazel Austin.

Betty had a fulfilling career and retired from Reserve Life Insurance Company in Dallas after dedicating 24 years of her life to the company, she was also a longstanding member of Texas Extension Education Association (TEEA). 

Not only did Betty excel professionally and within her community, but she also found solace and strength in her faith. A member of Perryville Baptist Church since 1988, she nurtured her spiritual relationship with unwavering devotion. 

Betty is survived by her husband, Rex Hester, of 65 years; son Steve Hester and his wife Sherry; two grandchildren Jason Hester and Jena Hester; four great-grandchildren Payton Hester, Jayden Hester Conner Johnson, Brooklyn Johnson; brother Roy Austin and sister Helen.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents Allie and Hazel Austin; son Terry Hester and sister Goldie Bernice Driver.

To honor Betty's life, a visitation will be held on December 30, 2023, at Croley Funeral Home in Gilmer, Texas, from 1:00-2:00 pm. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be conducted at the same location starting at 2:00 pm with Pastor John Burk officiating. Interment will be at Perryville Cemetery in Wood County.