Bettye Hayes Wilder Teasley's Obituary
Bettye Hayes Wilder Teasley, born January 11, 1937, in Ruston, Louisiana, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of strength, love, and devotion to those who knew her.
Bettye was raised in Ruston, Louisiana, where she spent her early years surrounded by family and community. She later attended Louisiana State University, where she was an active and dedicated member of the Chi Omega sorority. During her time there, she was honored as Outstanding Pledge her freshman year, a recognition that reflected her character and leadership. She continued to distinguish herself by serving as both Vice President and President of her sorority, forming lifelong friendships and memories.
After graduating from LSU, Bettye began her professional career as an assistant buyer for Neiman Marcus in Dallas, Texas. It was there that she met Gerald Haynes Teasley Jr., and the two later married. They made their temporary home in Houston, Texas, as Gerald completed his studies at Baylor College of Dentistry’s orthodontics program. Following the completion of his studies, they settled in Texarkana, Arkansas, where they built their life together.
Bettye and Gerald were blessed with two daughters: Holland Ann Teasley Weaver, born June 25, 1962, and Elizabeth Brooks Teasley Franklin, born April 27, 1966.
In Texarkana, Bettye and Gerald were active members of the Texarkana Country Club. A lover of sports, Bettye had a particular passion for golf. She was an accomplished player, becoming the Women’s Golf Champion two years in a row. Her leadership and dedication were further evident as she served as both President and Vice President of the Ladies Golf Association.
Bettye was also deeply committed to her community. She was an active member of the Junior League of Texarkana, where she served as both Vice President and President. She went on to serve on the National Junior League Board of Directors as an Area Six Manager in the United States. In addition, Bettye, along with others in Texarkana, helped establish the first local Alumnae chapter of the Chi Omega sorority and proudly served as its first President.
In 1980, Bettye began working for Doncaster, Inc., a women’s custom clothing company manufactured in Rutherfordton, North Carolina. She excelled in her role and served as a Regional Manager for 15 years, building lasting relationships and earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
After retiring from Doncaster, Bettye moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, where she worked in a local attorney’s office, and later retired to Fayetteville, Arkansas, to be closer to her daughter Holland and her family.
Bettye is survived by her two children, Holland Ann Teasley Weaver and her husband, Bob, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Elizabeth Brooks Teasley Franklin and her husband, Mark, of Austin, Texas. She is also survived by her four grandchildren: Jon Taylor Shaddy and his wife, Kasi; Carson Shaddy and his wife, Sarah; Mabry Viehman and her husband, Will; and Davis Franklin.
She is further survived by her most precious great-grandchildren: Cannon Shaddy, Drew Shaddy, Carter Shaddy, and Wilder Viehman.
She is also survived by her nieces and nephew: Mitchell Wilder, Amanda Wilder LaVigne, and Anne Wilder Black.
Bettye was preceded in death by her brother, Dr. William Mabry Wilder, and his wife, Leu, of Shreveport, Louisiana.
She will be remembered for her kind spirit, resilience, and the warmth she brought into every room. Bettye touched the lives of many through her compassion, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends.
Her life was a testament to perseverance and grace, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in her name to Circle of Life Hospice, 901 Jones Road, Springdale, Arkansas.
Services will be private.
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