Bette Gene Oliphant

Bette Gene Oliphant, aged 92, passed away peacefully in Yoakum, Texas, on July 21, 2024. She was born on July 24, 1931, to Leonard and Manerva Andrews in La Pryor, Texas.

Bette spent most of her life in South Texas, where she adored spending time with her family above all else. She eagerly anticipated the annual family gatherings at camp, a tradition that brought everyone together. These gatherings were filled with laughter, stories, and the warmth of togetherness, which Bette cherished deeply.

Alongside her sisters and mother, Bette traveled the country for many years, participating in bowling tournaments and exploring new places. They were notably recognized as one of the few, if not the only, mother-and-daughters bowling teams, creating countless memories and sharing countless adventures.

She had a deep love for gardening, particularly for cultivating flowers and attracting hummingbirds, reflecting her nurturing spirit. Throughout her life, she faced numerous challenges and obstacles, tackling each one with unwavering courage. The more someone told her something couldn't be done, the more resolute she became in accomplishing her mission. Even as time passed, her quick wit remained intact, and she was always ready with a joke or a loving remark to keep everyone in line when needed. Her sense of humor and candid advice were admired by all who knew her.

Bette is lovingly remembered by her son, Michael Gibson (Katy); her sisters, Lynn Solansky (Frank), Sue McHazlett, and Laverne Weber (Mark); her grandchildren, Casey Allen (Samantha), Fanci Brown, Kasie Carroll (Courtney), Colt Brown (Lori), Halie Gibson, Gavin Gibson, and Heather Tank (Phillip); her great-grandchildren, Chloe Allen, Jeanneh Allen, Tanner Allen, Lilith Hostert, Liam Padilla, Luz Padilla, Elliot Brown, Titus Tank, Miriam Tank, and Olivia Carroll; and her great-great-grandchild Kolter Moore. She is preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Manerva; her siblings, Donald Andrews, Willis Nelson Andrews, and Leva Lou Jones; and her children, Sherman Wayne Brown, Leslie Brown, and Linda Jean Reeves.

A graveside service will held on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 2:00 PM at La Pryor Cemetery. 

Pallbearers will be Andy McHazlett, Frankie Lee Solansky, Colt Brown, Dylan Marek, Bo Bollier, Holt Ermis, and Ty Ermis.