Bette Jo Griffin was born on October 14, 1938, to Matthew and Fannie Mae Fulson in Spiro, Oklahoma. She was the eldest daughter and first set of two twins among a total of nine siblings. She completed her education from Sumner High School and Metropolitan Community College, where she earned a degree in Education, igniting her lifelong passion for nurturing young minds for three decades with the Kansas City, Missouri School District.
Bette was known for her sharp mind, unwavering strength, and boundless love for her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family and friends. She loved to travel the world, indulge in various cultures, watch football, read literature and solve puzzles. Having embraced her faith early in life, she was an active member of the Temple of Faith Missionary Baptist Church until God called her home.
Bette married Charles Lee Griffin Sr. her devoted partner and love of her life on September 8, 1957, and together they had five children: Wendell, Yolanda, Anthony, Charles Jr., and Kathryn.
Mrs. Bette Jo Griffin peacefully transitioned on April 13, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength and wisdom that will forever endure in the hearts of those who knew her.
Bette preceded in death her husband Charles Lee Griffin Sr., Parents: Matthew and Fannie Mae Fulson. Son Wendell Irving. Siblings: Matthew Fulson Jr., Eugene Fulson, Kenneth Fulson, Joseph Fulson, Shirley Blakney and Alice Fae Fulson. Grandson’s: Earnest Rogers and Christopher Ingram.
She leaves to cherish her children: Yolanda Griffin, Anthony Griffin (Tracy), Charles Lee Griffin Jr. Kathryn Griffin (Charles Jr.). Siblings: Robert Fulson (Sue), Rosetta Burton, Delise Fulson and Delois Fulson. Grandchildren: Deontre Winston (Tara), Ke’Shawne Ingram, Ashley Allen, Carlton Rogers, Shantae Pitts, HaMishia Griffin, Marcus Jackson, Marvin Jackson Sr. Great-grandchildren: Terell, Tyeesha, Deontre II Winston, Amiyah Allen, Gianna Allen-Thomas, Halaijah Kitchen, Major Thatcher, Kasiyah Walker, Arionia, Keiana, Akeelah and Marvin Jackson Jr.
Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 27, 2024, 12noon at Temple of Faith Missionary Baptist Church, 3000 E. Gregory, Kansas City, Mo. visitation 11 am. Interment Forest Hill Cemetery. Service conducted by Watkins Heritage Chapel. Condolences may be shared on our website.
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