Bettye Jo Downey

Bettye Jo Downey, age 86, of Clovis, New Mexico, went to be with the Lord on February 22nd, 2023. 

Bettye and her twin Sister Bobbye were born on November 5th, 1936,  to Charley and Pearl Morrow.  They grew up in House, New Mexico along with their older Brother, Lloyd Morrow. 

Bettye graduated from House High School in 1955 and went on to complete her master’s degree in Education.  Bettye enjoyed her career in teaching, including decades of educating  2nd graders at Zia Elementary in Clovis, New Mexico. 

Bettye’s first marriage to Therman A. James in 1960 blessed her with Daughter Rhonda James and Son Rodney James.  Bettye’s second marriage to Russell E. Downey in 1983, added six additional adult children to their blended family: Pat Brand, Alvin Downey, Teresa Bolls, Dwain Downey, Diane Barker and David Downey.  Over the years this large, blended family has been blessed with numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren.

Bettye loved spending time with her extended family, serving at local churches, square dancing, sewing, crocheting, and experiencing nature through horseback riding in the mountains and bird watching at home. 

Closed casket services will be held at Kingswood United Methodist Church in Clovis, New Mexico on Saturday, March 11th at 10 a.m.  Close friends and family are also invited to an open-casket viewing on Friday, March 10th from 2-4 p.m at Steed-Todd Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, Bettye requested donations be made to the charity of your choice.

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