Betty Patterson

Betty Patterson, of Linn, Missouri, after a long life of learning, teaching and sharing her faith passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, at the age of 97. She was preceded in death by parents, Clarence and Lena (Welch) Gladden, and her four siblings. 

Born on February 28, 1928, in Turley, Missouri, she grew up with a love of learning that became the hallmark of her life. After graduating High School in Plato, she moved to St. Louis to help care for her nieces, Pat and Peg, —a gesture that foreshadowed her lifelong devotion to teaching and nurturing others. 

Betty then moved to Springfield to attend Southwest Missouri State College to pursue her teaching degree. In June of 1952, she married Wayne Patterson, beginning a life together, rooted in shared faith, service, and education. 

Her teaching career spanned decades, beginning at Liberty School in a one room schoolhouse and then on to Willard, Huntsville, Fatima and Linn. Her passion for education led her to earn her master’s degree in education from Lincoln University in 1979. 

Beyond the classroom, while starting a family, she founded the State School in Linn, creating opportunities for students with special needs long before such programs were common, and found time to lead cub scouts, help launch the first kindergarten in Linn, and tutor international students.

 When it came to sharing her faith while educating others, she directed Vacation Bible School, led the Women’s Missionary Union and started the Baptist Student Union at Linn Tech. 

Her faith and commitment were steady and deep. When confusion began making life more difficult, she moved in with family in Columbia for over 11 years where she was cared for by amazing caregivers, including her grandkids, who brought joy to her days. She moved to The Baptist Home in Ironton in December 2022 where she enjoyed around the clock attention by truly loving staff. 

“Grandma Betty” - as she was known by so many - was one of a kind. Her infectious smile and love for ice cream will be missed by all who knew her. 

She is survived by her sons: Calvin (Lisa), David (Jill) and Charles (Darlene). Grandchildren: Brittney (Blake), Samuel (Kristina), Jenna, Zachary, and Emma, four great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. 

As believers in Jesus Christ, we believe that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8). For this reason, we celebrate the life of our mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, Betty Patterson, with joy and thankfulness. 

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Linn with Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Graveside service will follow in Brighton, Missouri.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent in memory of “Grandma Betty” to The Baptist Home Arcadia Valley.

Arrangements are under the direction of Morton Chapel, Linn, Missouri (897-2214) www.mortonchapel.com