Betty Jo Shepherd – A woman known by many names; Mama, Mama Jo, Aunt Betty, Grandma, daughter, sister, and affectionately Betty Boop.
Beautiful, loving, kind and adored by so many of us.
Betty loved her family without measure. She literally stopped to smell the flowers, was curious and knowledgeable about the world around her. She appreciated all that God has created.
This week I’m in California fulfilling my Aunt Betty’s request that I officiate her service. What an honor. I am truly blessed that she entrusted me with her last wishes.
Although she was my aunt we grew up as sisters.
She was a free spirit. She loved life, people and the Lord. And in return all that met her loved her.
It will be hard to imagine life without her but her take on departure was different.
Once on one of many ambulance rides to the ER she told her daughter not to worry. “Either way this goes, it’s a win win for me,” she said.
“Welcome to the party. I wish I could take you with me, but I’ll see you when you get there,” she said during departing days.
Betty was ready and she knew that it was time to reap her rewards. She truly is at peace.
So many of my family members have passed. Our once huge family gatherings have changed.
Betty had two daughters: Sonya and Dana. Both of those beautiful girls are gift to our family. From there Betty’s Dynasty was born. She has been embraced and loved by the girls, their children and their children’s children. A dynasty indeed.
Once when my photographer friend Nikki Wilkerson (Hancock) came to photograph the wedding of Betty’s grandson Jese she was quite impressed with the family. “There’s not an ugly one in the bunch,” she said.
She was right. Betty’s Dynasty is filled with beautiful people inside and out. Th
I learned a lot of things from our beloved Betty Boop. As I’ve read her notes and journals in preparation for the service I’ve learned even more.
I pray that I can be as strong, faithful and loving as she has been.
She struggled for a long time, but now she can breathe easy and continue to dance as she is reunited with loved ones who went before her.
Because I have the privilege of honoring her one last time; Life is good today.