J. Elizabeth "Betty" Henricks

J. Elizabeth "Betty" Henricks, born in Adrian, Texas to John and Blanche Frisbie on Sept. 23, 1922, passed away on May 6, 2004, at The Burlington, where she had been a resident in hospice care since late January and where she received wonderful and compassionate care from the great staff and from Sally Thornburg, RN of Optimal Hospice Care. Betty is preceded in death by her sister, Nellie Bryning and her husband, John F. "Jack" Henricks. She is survived by her brother, Don Williams, her only child, daughter Gina Kesler and her son-in-law, Bruce Kesler.

Betty, whose parents both passed away quite early in her life, spent much of her youth traveling and eventually settled in Amarillo where she married and had her daughter. Betty was widowed in the 1960s soon after the family moved from Texas to California. She spent the next several years caring for her daughter as a single parent. Though times were tough and she had to work hard to support them, Betty made sure to be actively involved in all aspects of her daughter's life. Whether as a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, room mother at school or a fan at sporting events, she was always there. "Mrs. Betty" or "Mugs" as she was affectionately referred to be her daughter's friends, always made sure their home was a place her daughter and her friends felt welcome and comfortable - a place they could have fun, find someone to listen and receive love and encouragement. She was a truly wonderful mother.

In the early 70s Betty met and married Jack Henricks. They retired to Wofford Heights and soon decided to reopen Jack's business, Center Carpets, which continues to operate today under the control of James Kelly and Sandra Kennington, who in recent years became close friends and loving caregivers.

Betty and Jack became well known and respected in the community not only as successful business owners but also for their active involvement in many community and civic organizations. They spent many busy and happy hours with family and friends as members of the Wofford Heights Improvement Group, the Douglas El Segundo Rod and Gun Club, the Elks Club, the Loyal Order of the Moose and the VFW. Betty also found spiritual guidance and wonderful fellowship as a member of the Kernville United Methodist Church.

Though in recent years Betty had not been able to get out much, she had in the past been quite active. She enjoyed golf, fishing, cards, bingo, dancing and spending time with her husband and many friends. She also enjoyed frequent visits through the years from her daughter, Gina, and her son-in-law, Bruce, and their many friends who were always welcomed and assured of a good visit filled with love and laughter.

Betty was greatly admired by all who knew her. She was a strong, intelligent, friendly woman with a good sense of humor and a kind, loving and compassionate heart. She was much loved by her family and friends and will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 15 at noon at the Kernville United Methodist Church at 251 Big Blue Road in Kernville. A reception will be held at the church immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Optimal Hospice Care, or a Cancer or Alzheimer organization of your choice.

Services entrusted to the care of Lake Isabella Valley Mortuary.