In Loving Memory of Betty (Parker) Culpepper-Jones
November 2, 1947 – May 17, 2025
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we celebrate the legacy of Betty Culpepper-Jones who passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025. A beacon of love, strength, and compassion, she touched countless lives as a mother, wife, family member, and friend.
Born and raised in Jayton, Texas, Betty carried the spirit of her small hometown throughout her life – grounded, loyal, and full of heart. After graduating from Jayton High School and winning first place in the state for Extemporaneous Speaking, she went to McMurry College. She married early and then devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family and motherhood, pouring all of her love, energy, and time into raising her daughters, Kenda and Karla. She embraced the role with unmatched dedication, always striving to give them the very best of herself every single day. She then pursued her calling as a neonatal nurse, where her extraordinary talent, gentle hands, and thoughtful care left a lasting impact on the tiniest patients and their families. Her work was more than a job – it was a reflection of her immense empathy and dedication to others. She later expanded her heart for healing into entrepreneurship. As the proud owner of Peppers, a beloved sandwich and dessert restaurant, she delighted the community with her signature homemade treats and warm, welcoming smile. She then continued to blend her medical expertise with leadership as a respected executive in home health care – always with a focus on delivering comfort and dignity to those in need.
Later in life, Betty married Michael Jones who became her steadfast partner and best friend for nearly 30 years. Together, they built a life full of adventure, creativity, and deep connection. They founded Doctors’ House Calls, LLC and The Foot Center, healthcare-related businesses. They also created Art Classes Around the World, an art school in the Loire Valley of France, and then embraced life abroad, living six vibrant years in Ecuador and two unforgettable years in Portugal. While there, Betty absorbed culture, painting her surroundings, and made lifelong friends wherever she went. Her artistic talent was awe-inspiring – she could bring beauty to life with a brushstroke, a sketch, or a flourish of color.
Above all, Betty was a devoted and loving mother to Kenda and Karla. She never missed a single event – always in the stands, in the audience, behind the camera, or holding a hand. And she was not only Michael’s life partner, but his soulmate – his North Star. Her love was unfailing, her support unwavering, and her presence constant. She embodied what it means to love unconditionally.
Among her greatest joys in life were her grandchildren — Kaylee, Kody, and Kaylen as well as Addie, Hannah and Grayson whom she loved deeply and joyfully. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with them. She would often beam with pride as she watched them perform on stage or compete on the athletic field, and she loved to paint together, cook favorite family recipes, and teach them to play the piano. Her bond with each of them was special. They were her joy, and she was so proud of the people they are and are becoming. She loved them dearly, wrapping them in a love that will live on forever in their hearts.
Betty lived fully, loved fiercely, and gave selflessly. Her legacy is not just in the work she did, but in the lives she touched and the family she cherished. We are better, stronger, and more compassionate because of her.
She is survived by her loving husband Michael; her devoted daughters Kenda (Jim) and Karla (Keith); her stepson Jason Peter (Shannon); her grandchildren Kaylee, Kody, Kaylen, Addison, Hannah, and Grayson; her brother David; family members and all those who were lucky enough to have known her.
A celebration of her life will be held on June 4, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Rockwall. Flowers may be sent to the church at 1200 E. Yellowjacket Lane, Rockwall, Texas 75087.