Betty L. Woodward

Our mom, Betty Woodward, joined her husband and best friend, Woody in heaven.

She has been ready for her final goodbye for a while now, not understanding why she could not just go. Her son, Larry explained to her "mom, this is not your decision, only God makes that call, and your last name begins with a 'W' so you have to wait your turn". She smiled and chuckled. Her other son, Jim was having a life and death conversation with her and asked her if she was afraid to die. She quickly replied, "of course not, I've never done anything wrong"

Mom was born in Hoyt on December 6, 1917 and died October 1, 2013 in Topeka. She was the daughter of Hank and Sadie Belle Calderwood, the sixth of nine children. Her large Calderwood family is wonderful. They are always there to support, help, and love you. In my mind, I picture them similar to "The Walton's", except they were livelier and more fun. They sang, laughed, worked and had a great time doing it. What a blessing to be a part of this great family.

Mom, being raised in this large Calderwood family probably helps explain her warm hospitality and special ability to feed any number of people with no prior notice. Family, friends and strangers enjoyed her wonderful cooking. She always welcomed them and always had an extra plate or two at her table.

This amazing little woman had a special gift with kids. She loved them with all her heart, made them mind and gave them all the time they wanted or needed. I can see her now with one of her little ones standing next to her at the kitchen sink on a stool "helping" her cook. We considered her the "angel" of child rearing. Every child loved to be with their special Grandma Woody.

Betty and Woody were just two years shy of their Golden wedding anniversary…73 years! She married her handsome husband Woody in 1940. They had a wonderful life together. They had three children, Larry, Linda Woodward Brady and Jim. They later received two more daughters and one son by way of marriage, Nancy, Mary & J.R. They also had 7 grandchildren, 12 great and 1 great-great grandchild.

Mom, you were the glue that held us together and you will be so missed by all. We can't express the depth of our love for you. Thank you for your totally unselfish love.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 8, 2013 at Penwell-Gabel Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Road. Burial will follow at Rochester Cemetery. Betty will lie in state at the funeral home after 2:00 p.m. Monday and visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Woody and Betty Woodward Memorial Fund, c/o Oakley Place, 618 SW Oakley, Topeka, Kansas 66606.