Betty Jo Curtis

Betty Jo (Owens) Curtis, of Wardell, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on August 22, 2026. She was born on January 10, 1929, in Wardell to Dallas and Ethel Owens.

Betty Jo married Leon "Crack" Curtis on December 26, 1952. Their marriage was the first wedding held at First Baptist Church in Wardell. Together they shared a devoted life and many treasured years until his passing.

A longtime member of First Baptist Church in Wardell, Betty Jo faithfully served through music, playing the organ for 50 years. Her dedication to her church was an important part of her life and a reflection of her love for her community.

Betty Jo also worked as a bookkeeper at Citizens Gin in Wardell for 63 years. Her many years of service were marked by dependability, loyalty, and a strong work ethic.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Pamela Jo Tarver, and her special son-in-law, Roger Tarver, of Wardell; her sister-in-law, Jean Curtis of Tupelo, Mississippi; her precious granddaughter, Amy Walker of Jonesboro, Arkansas; her cherished great-grandsons, Landen and Logan Walker of Jonesboro, Arkansas; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and a multitude of friends and extended family who will remember her with love.

Betty Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Dallas and Ethel Owens; her devoted husband, Leon "Crack" Curtis; her sisters, Aletha Ray and Geraldine Terrell; her brothers-in-law, Phillip Ray and Ralph Terrell; and her nephews, Terry and Chris Terrell.

Betty Jo will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her faithful service to her church, her many years of dedicated work, and the kindness she shared with those around her. Her life leaves a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at the Wardell Baptist Church with Brother Griff Walker officiating. Visitation will be from 12 noon until service time. Burial will be in Dunklin County Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Kennett, MO.