Betty Nell Jeffery Gettys Castleman Montgomery, 91, of Houston, Missouri, passed away Nov. 30, 2024. She was born June 22, 1933, in Lebanon, Missouri, to James Jeffery and Nell Edwards Jeffery.
Betty is survived by her three siblings: Lee Jeffery, Lynn (Susan) Jeffery and Joe (Susanne) Jeffery.
As a member of the Houston First Christian Church, Betty was involved in Bible classes and vacation Bible school. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her in all her endeavors.
After graduating from Lebanon High School, Betty began her career at the Agriculture Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS) office in Lebanon. What was later intended to be a temporary position at the ASCS office in Houston turned into a lifelong commitment to the community. She became a successful, entrepreneurial businesswoman, owning and operating several local Houston businesses, including the helpful aisles of Otasco, to fragrant blooms of Flowerland and later Houston Florist, the stylist selections of BBK Dress Shop, the trusted deals of Troy’s Real Estate and the friendly service at The Pit Stop. Together with her husband, Troy, she built a legacy of hard work, dedication and community service. Every venture wasn’t merely a business, but a gathering place where neighbors became friends, and every customer felt like family.
Betty had a passion for arranging flowers and gardening, with a particular love for roses. She enjoyed painting, crafting and activities that showcased her creative spirit. She enjoyed cooking and feeding her family and friends, especially during the holidays.
In 1955, Betty married Dale Gettys, and together they welcomed her first son, William Scott Gettys. In 1960, her paths crossed with and she married Troy Castleman, with whom she had four children: Beverly Nell Castleman Hurd, Douglas Cowan Castleman, Kay Ann Castleman Wegleitner and Troy Don “Butch” Castleman. Troy preceded her in death Nov. 7, 1993.
Betty reconnected with and married her high school classmate, Gordon “Jake” Montgomery Nov. 11, 1995. They shared many happy years together until his passing Jan. 7, 2013.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Nell Jeffery; her stepmother, Freeda Calton Jeffery; and sister-in-law, Martha Jeffery. Her legacy lives on through her children: Scott (Angie) Gettys of Houston; Beverly (Tim) Hurd of Webb City; Doug (Celinda) Castleman of Houston; Kay (Steve) Wegleitner of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and Troy Don “Butch” (Elizabeth) Castleman of Houston.
Her grandchildren were the pride and joy of her life: Jeffery Scott (Jessica) Gettys, Kelsie Wegleitner (Hunter) Alario, Kyle (Bailee) Wegleitner, Christian Wegleitner, Leilani Castleman, Ashlie Castleman (Josh) Lord, Viki Castleman (Dan) Narancich, Michael Castleman, Celina Castleman, A.J. Castleman and Troy Alexander “Alex” Castleman. Betty’s love extended to her 14 great-grandchildren: Jenna Gettys, Josh Gettys, Jake Gettys, Josie Gettys, Ximena Castleman, Jose Castleman, Riley Lord, Addison Lord, Isaac Narancich, Matthew Narancich, Luke Narancich, Zach Narancich, Rhett Alario and Brecken Wegleitner, and numerous nieces and nephews, who will carry forward her spirit of joy, love and generosity.
The family kindly requests donations be made in Betty’s memory to the Houston Christian Church. We wish to express our deepest gratitude to all who have been a part of Betty’s journey. Your love, friendship and support have meant the world to her and continue to be a source of comfort to us all.
Graveside services and burial will be held 10 a.m. Dec. 7, 2024, at Ozark Cemetery, Ozark Baptist Church, Houston, Missouri. Arrangements entrusted to Evans Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.evansfh.com.
