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Betty Jane (Gates) Mefford, a lifelong resident of Salina, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in Pryor, Oklahoma, at the age of 90 years, 6 months, and 2 days. Betty was born on November 25, 1935, in Salina, Oklahoma, to Ira and Ethel (Crawford) Gates. She was raised in Salina and remained deeply connected to the community she loved throughout her life. Betty graduated from Salina High School and later earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.
On January 25, 1957, Betty was united in marriage to J.D. Bales. To this union, one daughter, Patty, was born. J.D. preceded her in death on May 9, 1965. Betty later married Carl Mefford, who also preceded her in death on May 24, 1992. Betty dedicated her professional life to educating young minds as a teacher with Salina Public Schools. For many years, she taught third grade, making a lasting impact on generations of students. Following a rewarding career, she retired in 1993.
A woman of faith, Betty was a longtime member of Salina First Free Will Baptist Church. Her faith, kindness, and caring nature guided her throughout her life. She was known for always putting others before herself and for her many talents and creative gifts.
Retirement opened the door to many of Betty’s favorite pastimes. She enjoyed traveling and participated in numerous tours across the United States, with Branson being one of her favorite destinations. She took great pride in her flower gardens and loved raising beautiful blooms. Betty also enjoyed working crossword puzzles and word searches, as well as reading, sewing, and creating countless outfits for Barbie dolls over the years. Her artistic talents extended to ceramics, where she crafted many cherished ceramic Christmas trees that became treasured keepsakes for family and friends.
Though Betty’s presence will be deeply missed, her legacy of faith, compassion, creativity, and devotion to family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Betty leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory that include: Her son-in-law: Ronny Cox of Salina, Oklahoma; 2 grandchildren: Kelly Simpson and husband Anthony of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and Dusty Cox and wife Alisa Cox of Salina, Oklahoma; 3 great grandchildren: Bailey Simpson and wife Emma, Dylan Simpson and wife Kadance, and Jake Cox; 2 great-great grandchildren: Beckham and Memphis Simpson; 1 sister: Joy Mozingo of Pryor, Oklahoma; as well as numerous other relatives and a host of friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ira and Ethel Gates; her husbands, J.D. Bales and Carl Mefford; her daughter, Patty Cox; one sister, Mary Ball; and one brother, Chester Gates.
A memorial service celebrating Betty’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at the Locust Grove Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend John Mozingo officiating. Cremation services have been entrusted to Locust Grove Funeral Home. Memories, condolences, and tributes may be shared at www.locustgrovefuneralhome.com.
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