Betty Deane Bickham

Betty Deane Bickham died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the age of 93.
 
  Betty Deane Bickham, born on January 27, 1931, in Redfork, Oklahoma to Blanche Mezett Stanley and James Fredrick Hunter, relocated to Texas at a young age with her family. It was in Kilgore, Texas, where she crossed paths with her true love and soul mate, James Franklin Bickham Jr., whom she married on July 10, 1953. Betty contributed her skills as a receptionist to the Utilities Department of the City of Kilgore for several years before the couple decided to make Odessa their home in the 1970s.
  
  In Odessa, she played an integral role in the development of University Park Baptist Church from its inception, actively contributing to its advancement and flourishing over the years. Her dedication led her to assume diverse responsibilities within the church community, including serving as a Sunday School Teacher, Church Clerk, and offering assistance whenever required. Her warm presence and unwavering commitment endeared her to countless individuals within the congregation, forging deep connections and earning widespread admiration and affection.
  
  She was preceded in death by her mother, Blanche Mezett Stanley; her father, James Fredrick Hunter; her brother, Burl Keith Hunter; her daughter, Sharon Elizabeth Bickham; and her husband, James Franklin Bickham, Jr.
  
  She is survived by her son, James Franklin Bickham III and his wife, Anne; her son, Terry Don Bickham and his wife, Ophelia; her son, Larry Dean Bickham and his wife, Susan; her grandchildren Sarah Elizabeth Johnson and her husband, Michael; John Christian Bickham; Matthew Zachary Bickham and his wife, Tammy; Claire Elizabeth Barry and her husband, Jonathan; Jessica Ann Bickham; her great-grandchildren Jimmy Drake Johnson Jr., Edison James Bickham, Imogen Rose Barry, Adaline River Barry, Eben James Loel Barry, and Jaceon Leron Williams. She is also survived by her sister, Alta Reeds as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
 
  The family of Betty Deane Bickham extends heartfelt appreciation to all who have kept her in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time. Your unwavering support and kindness have been a source of great comfort. Additionally, we wish to express our deepest gratitude to the healthcare professionals whose exceptional care and compassion provided solace during her final days.
  
  Graveside services and burial will be conducted at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, March 27th, at Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home in Odessa, Texas, with Wayne Maass presiding. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunset Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home.