Betty Ross Preisler Kelley

Betty Ross “BR” Kelley   Betty Ross Jackson was born on April 26, 1931 in Baptist Memorial Hospital, Houston, Texas to Garnet and Elizabeth Jackson. She graduated from San Jacinto High School Houston in 1949 and Baylor University in 1953.   She was an active member of South Main Baptist Church for 48 years from the time enrolled in the Cradle Roll until she moved to Wharton.  She was employed as Church Staff Receptionist at South Main for many years as well as volunteering as choir member, committee member, and mission activities.   In 1979, BR moved to Wharton after marrying Louis Preisler. During her years in Wharton, she worked as church secretary as well as volunteering as Wedding Coordinator, Church Clerk, General Sunday School Secretary, Choir member, committee member, and mission activities.   She served Texas Baptists through the Baptist General Convention of Texas as a member of the State Missions Commission, Theological Education Committee, and Board of Directors for The Baptist Standard.   Louis died in July 2008. BR married James Kelley on October 17, 2009.    BR’s hobbies included all kinds of puzzles: jigsaw, crosswords, Sudoku, and card games.  She thoroughly enjoyed cooking and collecting cookbooks.   Preceding her in death are her parents and sister, Jo Stevens.   BR is survived by her husband, James Kelley; brother-in-law John Stevens; nephews: Randy and Scott (Robin) Stevens; nieces: Kristin Knutson (David), Dawn Embry, Diane Kirkland, Debra Vogel (Joe); stepchildren: Glen Preisler (Lori), Sharon Shafer, Judy Leber (Fred), Dennis Kelley (Melinda); numerous great nephews and nieces; “Love Son” David (Susie) Hill. BR has requested that any memorials in her name be made to the:   First Baptist Church Wharton 507 N. Fulton Wharton, TX 77488   The Baptist StandardPO Box 259019Plano, TX 75025-9019