The Richmond News, Apr. 10, 2026

May 18, 1928- March 28, 2026 Bettie Lou Martin passed away peacefully the morning of March 28, 2026, in Richmond. She was 97 years old.

Known as a loyal caregiver, Bettie Lou lived a life of service and left a lasting impact on her friends, family and community.

Born May 18, 1928, to Robert and Mildred Schooler, Bettie Lou was the oldest of two children.

A lifelong resident of the Hickory Grove community, Bettie Lou grew up with James Benjamin Martin. On Jan. 23, 1948, the two married.

Together, Bettie Lou and J.B. began a great adventure. They traveled around the country, including countless trips to Alaska, and made friends everywhere they went.

But throughout their adventurous lives, their farm in Hickory Grove was their home base. She and J.B. loved their farm and took great pride in the land. Their farm was a refuge for many a stray cat or dog in need of a home. It also became a hub for their growing family.

Bettie Lou’s career was led by service. After attending Central Methodist College (now Central Methodist University) in Fayette, she taught at rural schools in Ray County. In 1967, Bettie Lou began working for the Missouri Department of Social Services, a role she held for her entire career.

Service also guided Bettie Lou’s personal life. She was an active member of the Hickory Grove Baptist Church, a great friend and neighbor, and the consummate mother and grandmother. She also was a wonderful cook and host, known for her delicious sugar cookies and banana bread, card-playing skills and great sense of humor.

Bettie Lou was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Mildred Schooler; husband, James Benjamin Martin; and daughter, Linda Emley.

She is survived by her sister, Dorothy Beard; and two children, Mike Martin and his wife, LeaAnn of Smithville, and Jane Flexter and her husband Gregory of Indian Hill, Ohio. She also is survived by seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please support Harvesters Food Bank of Kansas City. Contributions can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Memorial services will be held Friday, April 17, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and the services to follow at 11. Inurnment will be in Hickory Grove Cemetery.

Please share your memories of Bettie Lou with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.