of Benton, AR
May 27, 1934 - May 21, 2024
Betty Goodwin Bassett passed away May 21, 2024. She was born on May 27, 1934 in Benton, Arkansas. Betty was a graduate of Benton High School and Methodist Hospital School of Nursing in Memphis, Tennessee and attended Louisiana College in Pineville, Louisiana.
She was predeceased by her parents, Ernest and Leola Goodwin; infant brother, Billy Scott Goodwin and longtime companion, Paul S. McCormack. Betty is survived by her son, John C. Bassett III (Jay). Her ''bonus family'' includes Paul (Gretchen) McCormack II, William (Christy) McCormack, Lindsey Fisher and John (Deana) McCormack and Nicholas, Wesley, Joseph, Erin, Brandal, Clark, Arden, Evan, Chase, Eden, Haven, Braden and Barrett.
Betty was a member of First United Methodist Church in Benton, the Wesley Sunday School Class, wherein she had served on various committees and the Administrative Board. Betty was a former member of the Junior Women Club, Clarksburg, West Virginia; The Arkansas Society of Washington, D.C.; Benton Junior Auxiliary, Philo Club of Benton and the Reserve Officers Ladies of Arkansas.
Betty enjoyed history, antiques, collecting Depression Glass and Niloak pottery, reading and traveling. She was an employee of the Saline County Health Unit for 27 years and had worked as an R.N. in Texas, Tennessee, Louisiana and Arkansas in her younger life. She was a charter member of Arkansas Public Health Nurses Association and served as Secretary to that group in its first year of organization. Betty loved life, her son, extended family and many friends.
A special thank you to Billie Whitehead, Eva Willis and Hospice Home Care for the care and devotion they gave to my mom.
Memorials can be made to First United Methodist Church of Benton or Arkansas Children's Hospital.
Graveside services will be held 9 am Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at Pipkin Cemetery in Salem.
Jay, I'm so sorry to hear about your mom. I loved her so much. We worked together at the Health Department. She inspired me to run for office in Office Professionals of Arkansas and serve on the board of APHA. She was a great lady and will be dearly missed.
God bless and comfort you.
Sue-Ellen Pelton-Johnson
Jay, My heart iaches for you through this time. I have fond memories of your mother. Sending love and hugs to you my friend.
I met Betty’s Mother and Dad when I first moved to Benton so of course when Betty moved back to Benton we became friends. She was such a sweet and kind person but when it came to giving my crying daughter shots at the Health Office she would say quit crying and let’s get this over with and that is what happened. Was so glad she had the McCormack Family in her life. They were such a joy to her. Jay love and peace. Patti Hyatt.
I loved my sweet cousin, rest well Betty
Betty was my late mother’s best friend since childhood. They graduated nursing school together and later both worked at the health dept. I have so many fond memories of Betty and she was one of the kindest people I have ever known. I still own many Christmas ornaments/ decorations that were from Jay- a tradition we had of giving each other an ornament or a Christmas decoration yearly. I treasure the memories and am most thankful for her friendship with my mother. Betty left this world a better place which in my opinion is the goal of this earthly life.
Sincere condolences for Betty’s son Jay and Bonus family . Betty was my friend and coworker for many years at Saline Health Unit. I’m not sure I let her know how I treasured our friendship. She will always be remembered fondly
My condolences to Jay and family.
What great memories I have of this wonderful lady. She was so good to us growing up. Prayer and love to you Jay.
Love and prayers for your peace and comfort, Jay.
Your mom was a very special lady and I enjoyed working with her all those many years ago at the Health Unit. I was very sorry to hear of her passing.
Rest in God’s love, Betty.
My condolences and my prayers.
My condolences to your entire family. I remember when Betty came to my wedding shower in 1981. She gave me a recipe for Mexican chicken and a crockpot. I make that recipe to this day. Betty was a wonderful person and always so nice to me. Prayers for the entire family.
Many good memories. Will be missed
Sending my condolences to you during this time. Betty was a wonderful lady. I loved her energy, love, and kindness for others. Prayers for you Jay and her extended family.
With heavy heart I say a temporary “goodbye “ to a friend from our childhood. Sympathy’ to Jay ant all of her bonus family.
Betty was our wonderful neighbor in Benton from 1978 to 1985. Jay and our daughter Christy graduated from Benton High in 1983. We have been fortunate enough to stay in touch in the ensuing years, although separated by many miles. Betty was an extraordinary blend of love & energy. She always found the kind and encouraging words to say. Precious memories!
Miss Betty was an angel on earth that has now gone to heaven. I look forward to seeing you again someday.