Bessie “Betsy” Clendenin

Bessie “Betsy” Clendenin (nee Watson), of St. Charles, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, November 8, 2018, at the age of 88. Loving wife of 61 years to Thomas R. Clendenin; beloved daughter of Roy and Ada Watson; devoted mother of Barbara (Velmer) Hancock, Brenda (Richard) Vogler, and Christopher (Sherrie) Clendenin; cherished grandmother of Jamie, Jackie, Jessica, Jennifer, Breanna, Sabrina, Brent, Ted, and Josh; treasured great and great-great grandmother to many; and dear sister of Norman (the late Lola) Jones, Ruth Jordan, Audie Calderon, the late Vernon Jones, and the late Nadeen (Leo) Roberson.

Betsy was an outgoing and social lady who could strike up a conversation with just about anyone in a matter of minutes.  She was comfortable with everyone wherever she went and never knew a stranger.  As a devoted Christian, she was a member of the Eastern Star, and bible study was a huge part of her life.  She also studied the Jewish roots of Christianity and traditions and sought out mentors who would teach her about the faith.

Betsy loved interior decorating and sewing, and this became a career for her later in life.  She was a fantastic cook who made amazing beef stroganoff, beef rouladen, Italian meatballs, and the best breakfast gravy around.  She also made phenomenal desserts, including pecan pie, apple pie, carrot cake, and German chocolate cake.  Betsy’s favorite place to eat was Red Lobster.

Betsy and her husband traveled through most of the U.S. and around Canada, in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.  They also visited Europe twice and Mexico a few times.  She loved spending time with her family, especially going to all her son’s sporting events.  Betsy was dearly loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

Memorial contributions may be made in Betsy’s honor to Samaritan's Purse.