Betty Lou (Smith) Strain Crase

Born to W.A. "Bill" and Grace Smith of Couch, MO on March 27,1929, Betty grew up lovingly surrounded by her parents and five sisters:  Pauline(Bolton), JoAnn (Brewer), Nan (Wheeler), Polly (Koetting), and Ethel (Goodrich) and a  brother with Down Syndrome, John Bill, whom she loved  unconditionally.  Brother, Carlee, died in infancy.  Betty passed away Wednesday, December 20, 2017.  She was the last surviving member of this family.

Because she was skipped two grades in elementary school, Betty graduated from Couch High School at age 15.  She moved to St. Louis and lived with Pauline and husband.  As many did during this war time, she worked in a munitions plant.

On March 9, 1946, she married Waymon Strain. They moved to the Couch area and became parents to Brenda (Ellsworth) and Beverly (Thomas).  Sadly, Waymon died suddenly on Nov. 24, 1964.

Betty found a special love with Calvin Crase - marrying on October 26, 1990. She is survived by Calvin,  Brenda, Beverly and husband, Rick,  two step-sons  – Ron Crase,  Jeff Crase ( Cindy)  and one step- daughter,  Kim Lewellin :  three grandchildren – Hollee Ellis (Jerry),  Heidee White (Richie) and Cameron Thomas:  three step- grandchildren –  Allison Crase,  Goldie Hicks (Allen), and Robin Cain  (Corey).  Step-grandson, Larry, preceded her in death.   She is also survived by five great grandchildren, 10 step- great grandchildren, one step- great great grandchild, and many who loved her as aunt, friend, or neighbor. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her including her beloved dog, Pepper.

Betty loved her family and her God.  She acknowledged God's presence throughout every day.  She prayed for family, friends, even people she didn't know and was quick to praise God and thank him for his grace.   Betty's prayer life and Bible reading were inspiration for her prolific beautifully written thoughts and prayers.

Betty's Celebration of Life service will be at 6:00 p.m  Wednesday, December 27 ^th at Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home in Ash Gove.  Visitation will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Oxford Hospice are suggested for their gentle care for Betty and family pastoral guidance during the last months of Betty's life, donations may be left at the funeral home.