Betty Lou Cloer's Obituary
Betty Lou Rouse Cloer, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of God, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and quiet strength that shaped generations.
Betty was born on May 21, 1936, in Farmington, Arkansas, to Omer and Ruth Rouse. From a young age, she was grounded in faith, becoming a dedicated member of the Church of Christ as a young teenager—a commitment that remained a cornerstone of her life.
After graduating from Farmington High School, in 1955, while attending business college in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Betty met the love of her life, Gene Cloer. Their love story began quickly, and they were married the following year, beginning a remarkable 69-year journey together. Betty and Gene were not only husband and wife, but best friends who truly loved doing life side by side.
Betty faithfully served alongside Gene throughout his ministry as a preacher from 1960 until his retirement from pulpit work in 2001. Even after retirement, they continued their shared mission of service through their work with Truth for Today. Betty embodied the role of a minister’s wife with grace, humility, and steadfast support.
Together, Betty and Gene raised two daughters: Connie Louise Burnette (born June 2, 1958) and Betty Ann Morris (born August 28, 1959). Her love multiplied through her six grandchildren—Tyler Morris, Niki Burnette Ganick, Chase Burnette, Jake Burnette, Josie Jiang, and Adaline Burnette—and her ten great-grandchildren—Violet, Chloe, Henry, Maddox, Gemma, Rylie, Parker, Reese, Ruthie, and Emmy Jo.
Known affectionately as “Mammaw,” Betty was the heart of her family. She never missed an opportunity to support her grandchildren, faithfully attending ballgames, school programs, and any event that mattered to them. Her presence was constant, her encouragement unwavering.
Betty had a gift for making a house a home. She loved sewing, quilting, cross-stitching, and cooking. Her creations are scattered through all the families’ homes. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and welcome, and she was especially known for her Christmas candy, homemade tacos, smoked meats, and her famous monkey bread. Around Mammaw’s table, no one left hungry, and everyone felt loved.
While her primary calling was in the home, Betty also served faithfully in her community through her work with the State of Arkansas from 1977 until her retirement in 2001. After retiring, she and Gene moved to Georgia to be closer to their children and grandchildren, continuing to pour into the lives of their family.
Betty was also a devoted daughter, lovingly caring for her parents, Omer and Ruth Rouse, until their passing. She shared a special bond with her sister, Patricia Rouse Boudra of Houston, Texas. Despite the 12-year age difference, the two were the closest of friends.
Family was at the center of Betty’s life. She and Gene understood deeply the importance of loving well, and they modeled that love in every season of life.
In her later years, Betty was blessed by the compassionate care of Alicia, Betty, Pam, Courtney, and Sandra. She loved them dearly, and their kindness and devotion brought comfort and joy to her days.
Betty Lou Rouse Cloer will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her servant’s heart, and the deep love she had for her family. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the traditions she created, and the faith she lived out each day.
Graveside service will be 11:00 am Thursday March 26, 2026 at Sonora Cemetery under the direction of Moore’s Chapel. Family will greet friends at the cemetery from 10:30 – 11:00 am.
To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com
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