Dates
Betty Jane Slaton Richey passed away on January 4, 2017 in San Angelo. She was born September 7, 1922 to W.P. and Mini Allene Slaton. She spent her early years in Electra, Texas where her father was the Postmaster. She is survived by her son and daughter, Cliff Richey and Nancy Richey; 2 Nieces, Celia Carroll and Paula Wallace and a nephew, Joe Green. Betty has 3 granddaughters, Hilaire Kallendorf and her husband Craig Kallendorf, Amy Richey and Sarah Johnson and her husband Mark Johnson. Also 3 great grandsons, Trevor Kallendorf, Barrett Kallendorf and Oliver Johnson.
Upon high school graduation, Betty attended North Texas State University. It was there Betty met her husband of 67 years George Richey. George preceded her in death in 2008. Betty learned the craft of pro tennis and was George’s assistant when George was the head tennis pro at clubs across Texas. She gave lessons and help string many rackets for the members. Betty truly was the glue that kept the Richey’s together. At the end of many long days at the club “Mom” always fixed a good meal for the family. The high-octane life of the Richey’s pro tennis careers was always kept balanced by Mom’s calm influence.
Betty’s favorite role in life was being “Nana” to her granddaughters. They spent many days and nights at Nana’s house. They had tea parties and learned to cook Nana’s favorite recipes. There are many great memories of the granddaughters playing games such as “Pressure Ball” with “Pro” their granddad.
Nana also loved reading Bible stories to Hilaire, Amy and Sarah and left a great legacy of her Christian Faith. Family was the most important part of mom’s life. She was our North Star.
Betty was proud of her kid’s success in the world of Pro Tennis. She was an integral part of their success. She would feed balls to them on the training court and when she traveled the world with them, helped with many off court duties. On tour or at home, mom valued her family and faith the most. Mom was taken care of in her last years by her daughter Nancy.
The Graveside Service will be 1:00 P.M., Monday, January 9, 2017 at Miles Cemetery in Miles, Texas.
The family would like to thank Dr. Chris Barnett for his compassionate care. Chris has been the Richey’s Doctor for many years and he is the best. We also want to thank Mandy Sosa and the great ladies who cared for mom the last two weeks of her life, Alma De La Rosa, Melissa Gomez, Rosa Ibarra, Cathy Dickison, Dena Stewart, Monica Gutierrez, Patricia Martinez and our special friend and helper Kristal Munoz.
“Nana” you are now in your Lord and Savior’s arms, Jesus Christ. Enjoy heaven with “Pro,” Mom.