Betty Ann Fly, born on September 25, 1934, in Memphis, Tennessee, exemplified a life rich in love, faith and family connections. As the daughter of Thomas Houston and Georgia Gladys Phelps Dunn, she grew up in an environment that valued community and compassion. Betty's journey through life, marked by her nurturing spirit and unwavering faith, ended on February 6, 2025, at Autumn Oaks Assisted Living in Corinth, Texas. Her passing left a profound impact on her family and friends, who will remember her not only for her kindness but also for her vibrant spirit and dedication to those she loved. Left to cherish her memory are her children; preceded in death by her son, Samuel "Sammy" E. Fly (wife Carol), Steven E. Fly, Sharon (husband, Bill) David and Scott (wife, Erin) Fly; siblings, Margaret Daniel (husband, Rod) and Thomas "Tommy" (wife Jackie) Dunn; Grandchildren, Melissa and husband, Daniel, Andrew and wife Lauren, Whitney and husband, Casey, Taylor and fiancé Tammy, John and wife Misty, and Jake; Great Grandchildren, Briley, Delaney, Tripton, Josey, Presley, Amelia and River, and many nieces and nephews.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, her son, Samuel Edward Fly, Jr., her brothers, Jimmy Dunn, Robert Dunn, and Charles Dunn, her sisters, Shirley Lostetter and Doris Fields, and her great-granddaughter, Hadley D'Layne Bufe.

Betty's early years were characterized by a close-knit family environment, where she shared joyful moments with her siblings, Charles, Shirley, Doris, Robert, Maggie, Tommy and others. The memories of playing outside and visiting their grandparents during summer vacations formed the foundation of her childhood. These experiences instilled in her the values of family loyalty and the joy of simple pleasures, such as dancing for the soldiers as they departed for war. Such memories reflect the innocence of youth and the strength of family bonds that Betty cherished throughout her life.

Education played a significant role in shaping Betty's character. After graduating from high school in Jonesboro, Arkansas in 1953, she pursued business studies in Memphis. This educational background would later serve her well in various professional roles. Before embracing motherhood, she worked at Trans Texas Airlines at Love Field in Dallas, Texas, a testament to her independence and ambition. However, Betty found her greatest fulfillment in being a stay-at-home mom, dedicating herself to raising her children – Sammy, Steve, Sharon and Scotty. Her commitment to her family was unwavering, and she celebrated every milestone in their lives, from childhood achievements to adult successes.

Betty's professional life resumed later when she joined GTE Directories, working alongside her sisters, Shirley and Maggie. This experience not only provided her with a sense of purpose but also allowed her to cultivate lasting friendships Her colleagues affectionately referred to their group as the "Golden Girls, a nod to their camaraderie and shared experiences. This period of her life highlights Betty's adaptability and her ability to find joy in her work, further illustrating her vibrant personality.

A devoted member of Kirkwood United Method Church for over forty years, Betty's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She actively engaged in her church community and exemplified her beliefs through acts of service. Her dedication to delivering Meals on Wheels in Irving demonstrated her commitment to helping those in need, a value that was instilled in her during her childhood. Betty's love for Jesus and her faith guided her actions and interactions, leaving a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Betty's passion for family extended beyond her immediate household. She was a loving grandmother and great-grandmother, cherishing every moment spent with her grandchildren, Melissa, Andrew, Whitney, Taylor, John and Jake, and great-grandchildren Briley, Delaney, Tripton, Josey, Presley, Amelia and River. Her role as a matriarch brought her immense joy, and she made it a priority to attend their events, celebrating their achievements with pride and enthusiasm. The porch swing, a symbol of southern tradition, became a cherished setting for her, where she would share countless stories, and laughter echoed, encapsulating the essence of Betty's legacy.

Throughout her life, Betty maintained a playful spirit, as evidenced by her love for Elvis Presley, a distant 8th cousin removed. This lightheartedness, coupled with her strong moral compass and deep love for her family, painted a picture of a woman who embraced life with open arms. Her ability to blend faith, family and fun created a rich tapestry of memories that her loved ones will carry forward.

Betty always put others before herself and was the most unselfish person. Her smile would light up the room with a laugh so contagious. She had such a positive attitude and found the good in everyone. She loved her family and friends more than anything on this earth and enjoyed visiting with anyone that stopped by, always ready to be a true southern hostess. She enjoyed travelling with family, especially going to the casino with her sons and grandsons to play the slot machines. Her countless trips to Gleason, TN, while staying at her cousin Diane's family home with her sister Shirley and attending the Annual "Tater Town" festivities were some of her happiest moments. She was a rare gem to all.

Betty Ann Fly's life, marked by love, compassion, and unwavering faith, serves as a reminder of the importance of family and community. Her legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who carry forward her values of kindness and service. As family and friends gather to celebrate her life on February 13, 2025, they will reflect not only on the sorrow of her passing but also on the joy she brought into their lives. Betty's story is one of resilience, love and unwavering faith – a narrative that will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her. As her family says, she was the best MOM/MEGA ever!

The funeral service for Betty will be at 1:00 pm, Thursday, February 13, 2025, in the chapel of Colonial Funeral Home, 606 West Airport Freeway, Irving, TX 75062. Rev. Sean Busse, Pastor at Alliance Community Fellowship in Fort Worth, will be officiating. Family and friends may visit from 11:00 am until service time in the chapel. Burial will follow at the Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Irving.