Betty J. (Kellams) Bedwell

Betty Joan Bedwell, 98, passed away March 12th, 2019.  She was born May 3rd, 1920 in Terre Haute to Chester C. and Bessie D. (Potts) Kellams. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, James E. Bedwell, sister Mildred Deal, brother John C. Kellams and niece Shirley Deal Tresize.

She is survived by her sister Louise Kellams (Susan McKusic) of Minneapolis; son Jim Bedwell (Amanda Cantrell) of Greenwood; grandsons Darren Bedwell (Anna) of Indianapolis and Douglas Bedwell of Cloverdale, and their mother Doree Bedwell; granddaughters Rebecca Bedwell (Adam Crane) of Tucson and Caroline Bedwell of Bloomington; great-granddaughters Morgen and Madeleine Bedwell of Indianapolis; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Betty graduated from Wiley High School in 1938 and began working for Terre Haute Advertising.  She started her career in retail sales and purchasing at Aldens in 1956, moving on to Meis and Elder Beerman before retiring in 1985.  She often traveled to New York and Chicago, selecting new merchandise for the Terre Haute stores.  She continued part-time at Elder Beerman until age 75.

She and her husband spent most vacations touring the U.S., often with family or friends. They visited their son in Thailand.  After her husband’s passing, she continued to travel, including a trip to Greece.

She was a member of the Lioness Club, and helped organize her 50th high school reunion and subsequent gatherings.

She lived at Sycamore Manor for many years before moving to Wyndmoor Senior Living. She moved to Greenwood last December because of failing health.

She was a long-time member of St. Mark United Church of Christ where she enjoyed the fellowship and activities such as quilting and fundraisers.

Funeral services will be at DeBaun Funeral Home on Monday, March 18th.  Visitation for family 10:00-11:00, friends from 11:00-1:00, with services conducted at 1:00 by Rev. Teresa O. Higus.  Interment will be at Roselawn Cemetery.

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