Paul M. Betts

Paul Moody Betts left his earthly home for his heavenly home on January 23, 2018 at the age of 88 years. At the time of his death he was living in Austin, Texas with his son and daughter-in-law. Paul was pre-deceased by his parents, George Vernon and Annie Mae Betts, his beloved wife of almost 57 years, Ann Edrington Betts and 4 of his 5 siblings: Verna Warner, Pete Betts, Bob Betts and Annette Walker. He is survived by his son, Mark Betts, Daughter-in-law, Leah Betts and 2 grandsons, Blake Betts and Ross Betts of Austin, Texas. He is also survived by his brother George Betts Jr. and wife Joy of Tyler, Texas. In addition, he is survived by several sisters-in-law, Linda Kilpatric, Tommie Works, Mikki Sikorski, Mary Marc Johnson and Mickey-Marie Enders, Ruth Betts Bird and Yvonne Betts. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Lewis Walker. There are many nephews and nieces, cousins and dear friends that were a significant part of his life and they will miss him dearly. You were fortunate indeed if you knew Paul Betts. Paul was born March 9, 1929 at home near New Summerfield, Texas. He was the 5th of 6 children born to George Vernon and Annie Mae Betts. His parents were share-croppers and the whole family was very hard working. As a child, one of Paul's responsibilities was to bring in wood for the stove that heated the family home. The family always had a garden and raised livestock. Most of the homes he lived in as a child did not have indoor plumbing or electricity. He always said that he did not want to own a home with a fireplace because he hauled so much wood as a kid. Paul went to work for Southern Pacific Railroad as a telegrapher soon after he finished high school. He was transferred to Alice, Texas and met his future wife, Ann, at church. They were married in 1953 and lived in Victoria, Texas where their son Mark was born in 1955. The railroad moved the family to McAllen, Texas in 1967. He worked in the Southern Pacific offices, primarily in Harlingen and McAllen. Paul retired from Southern Pacific after a 41 year career. Paul was a faithful servant of God and never hesitated to help anyone. He was known for doing yard work, house painting, preparing meals and even doing minor home repairs especially for elderly friends and neighbors. He lived his life with a gentle and humble spirit and a huge heart for people. Over the years, the Betts family opened their home to many visitors and exhibited loving hospitality to all. Paul and his family worshiped and served at Harvey Drive Church of Christ for many years, volunteering with the youth group and teaching Bible classes. Paul served as an elder for the church as well. By God's grace, he survived several major health issues over the years and defied more than one doctor’s grim prognosis. Paul particularly enjoyed spending time with his grandsons. He loved playing games, taking them to the park and teaching songs to them as children. As they grew, he volunteered at their elementary school, attended their various sporting & school events, and he loved talking with them about all their adventures and exploits. Paul left a wonderful legacy of loving and serving his family and friends. He was truly a "Good and Faithful Servant" as God's word says in Matthew 25. We are confident he is at peace and at home in God’s presence.

Paul M. Betts

March 9, 1929 - January 23, 2018