On Sunday, September 29, 2024, Betty Lou Settlemire went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Betty was born in Wasco, California, on July 15, 1942, to John and Lucille Brown. She was the youngest of eight children. Betty spent most of her life in and around Kern County and had three children: Edward Applewhite, Penny Waderich (Gary), and Brenda Tovar (Greg).

In 1975, Betty reconnected with her high school friend, Kenneth Settlemire. Shortly after, they decided to take the next step and marry, blending their families to create their very own "Brady Bunch." Along with her three children, Betty welcomed two more daughters, Debbie Parrott and Deann Knight. Betty and Kenneth were married and faithfully committed to one another for over 48 years.

Betty was a faithful member of Wasco Free Will Baptist Church for many years. She cherished her fellow brothers and sisters in Christ and loved serving alongside them. Whenever there was a need, Betty was the first to volunteer. She contributed in numerous ways over the years, including helping with administrative tasks and finances, leading worship, teaching Sunday School, caring for babies in the nursery, assisting with the church Food Bank, and organizing special events. She had a heart for service, a passion for discipleship, and encouraged new believers in their faith. Betty loved her church family.

Betty was passionate about singing praises and worshipping the Lord, and nothing pleased her more than singing specials at church on Sunday mornings. Her powerful angelic voice and impressive vocal range were unmatched in the church choir. Her family will cherish memories of her practicing at home, popping that cassette tape in her stereo, tapping her hip to the rhythm, and singing over and over until she felt her voice was warmed up and perfect for performance.

Betty was deeply devoted to her family. While she was a loving mother and wife, her greatest pride came from her grandchildren. No matter the hurts and hangups, the struggles or mistakes, she loved them unconditionally, always encouraging them. She was proud to be their Nana and Grandma. Her front door was always open, and she was ready to share popcorn and a Diet Dr. Pepper while catching up on life.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth, her son, Edward, and her daughter, Brenda. She is survived by her sister, Letha Bell; her daughters, Penny Waderich (Gary), Debbie Parrott, and Deann Knight; her son-in-law Greg Tovar; 13 grandchildren: Lindi Applewhite, Jarred Applewhite (Melissa), April Bates (Justin), Andrew Cross (Veronica), Nicole Padgett (Jeremy), Greg Tovar Jr. (Monica), Anthony Tovar (Roxy), Jeremy Pedro (Heather), Tiffany Wankum (Matt), Kristen Fulton (Ed), Matthew Poettgen (Sarah), Amanda Rodriguez (Ryan), and Bradley Parrott; 35 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren.

Betty leaves behind a family legacy of faith, love, and devotion. Go find your place in the heavenly choir, Nana! You will be missed dearly here on earth, but we know we will see you again soon!