Betty L. Sexton

Betty Lou Sexton October 13, 1942 – June 24, 2026

With hearts full of both sorrow and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Betty Lou Sexton, who entered the presence of her Savior on June 24, 2026, at the age of 83. Betty Lou was born on October 13, 1942, in Manatee County, Florida, to the late Everett and Mildred DeSear. Raised with strong family values, a deep faith, and a country way of life, Betty carried those traditions throughout her life and passed them on to the generations that followed. Above all else, Betty loved Jesus Christ. Her faith was not something she kept to herself; she joyfully shared the love of the Lord with everyone she met. Whether through her words, her prayers, her hospitality, or her unwavering devotion to her family, Betty lived a life that pointed others to Christ. Her greatest desire was that her family would know and serve the Lord, and she faithfully prayed for them every day.

For 64 wonderful years, Betty was married to the love of her life, William “Bill” Sexton, affectionately known as her Texas cowboy. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and unconditional love. Their marriage was a testimony to commitment, devotion, and God’s faithfulness.

Betty was a proud and loving mother to her four cherished children: Sherie Belflower, Billy Sexton, Dusty Sexton, and Tammy Sexton. She treasured each of them and took great joy in watching their families grow. She was also a devoted grandmother to Sorrell Fields, Ashley Land, Joanna Vickers, Jamie Nelson, J.D. Stokes, William Sexton, Nikki Sexton, Nicole Avelli, Charlotte Craig. Sharon Boney and Pamela Douglas. There was rarely a day that passed without Betty lifting her grandchildren and their families up in prayer. Her love knew no bounds, and her prayers covered generations. Her legacy continues through her numerous great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored. She delighted in watching her family grow and prayed that they would continue the family legacy of loving and serving the Lord. Betty also grew up with 5 beloved siblings: Martha “Marty” Parks, Velma Godwin, Violet Mims, Wynonna “Nona” DE Sear, and William “Bill” DE Sear.

Anyone who knew Betty knew she was a woman of many talents. Raised in a country lifestyle, she could prepare some of the finest homemade meals around and was famous for her coconut cream pie. And boy did she love to sing (and had a special talent for yodeling). She lovingly gathered family around her table, creating memories that will be treasured forever. Yet she also enjoyed getting her hair and nails done and carried herself with grace and style. Betty truly could do it all.

Though she was loved by many, her first love was Jesus, and her second was the man who stood by her side for 64 years, Bill. Her life was a beautiful reflection of faith, strength, kindness, and unwavering devotion to family. While her family grieves her absence, they rejoice knowing she has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” and is now reunited with loved ones who have gone before her in the presence of her Lord and Savior. Betty’s legacy of faith, prayer, love, and family will continue for generations to come. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

A funeral service for Mrs. Betty L. Sexton will be conducted on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. in the Gateway-Forest Lawn Memorial Chapel with Pastor Daryl Fletcher officiating. Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to the service at Gateway-Forest Lawn Funeral Home. In Lieu of flowers, the family asks donations to be made to the American Heart Association or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. US HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.