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(Nov. 9, 1924 - March 3, 2016)
Betty Stanwaity of Powell died March 3, 2016, at Powell Valley Care Center. She was 91 years old.
Of Russian descent, Betty was born to Marshall and Ethel Blye on Nov. 9, 1924, in Garland, Kansas. As a child, her family moved to a farm near Deerfield, Missouri. Though she lived in Powell for 70 years, she would always claim her Missouri roots as home. She attended high school in neighboring Nevada, Missouri.
While a teen, she met Clyde Stanwaity of Powell, when he came to visit his relatives. Clyde served in the Army Searchlight Battalion but came to visit Betty on his furloughs. They were married on Oct. 28, 1945, when he was discharged. The couple moved to Powell, and Betty lived in their home on South Ferris Street for over 65 years.
The defining moment of Betty’s life came when she met Jesus Christ as her Lord and savior. In him, she found forgiveness, hope, and a purpose that would occupy her for the rest of her life. She joined First Baptist Church in Powell, where she was a member for 63 years.
Betty gave herself to children’s ministry, serving in Vacation Bible Schools and teaching Sunday school for 30 years. She was also an avid supporter of the local Child Evangelism Fellowship children’s ministry.
Betty loved the Lord Jesus, she loved the Bible, and she loved her church family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Marshall and Ethel Blye; her husband Clyde Stanwaity; and her brother Harold Blye.
Betty is survived by her nieces, Linda (Bif) Beck of Cody and Bonnie Beall of Casper; as well as many close friends.
Her loved ones and church family take comfort in knowing Betty is in the joyful presence of the Lord.
Services for Betty were held on Monday, March 7, at First Baptist Church in Powell.
