Betty Lou Hunter

Betty L. Hunter, 87, of Topeka, passed away surrounded by loved ones in her home on Sunday, May 4th, 2025

She was born on November 30, 1937 to Melvin and Carol (Brandt) Smith in North Hollywood, CA. Upon moving to Oregon with her family, she attended Nyssa High School in Nyssa, Oregon and graduated in 1955.

On April 28, 1965, she married the love of her life, James L. Hunter. Betty and James lived in Topeka, Kansas and together they raised 6 children.

Betty worked as the executive secretary for KMO Paralyzed Veterans of America. She was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church, and a member of American Legion Auxiliary - President (Post #1) and 1st Dist. ALA President Dept. of Kansas.

In her spare time, Betty loved to crochet, craft, draw, color, read, spend time with family, and volunteer at her church and with several community organizations. She will be most remembered for her loving heart, sassy sayings, and beautiful smile. Betty had a deep passion for her family and friends—but most of all, for Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Betty is survived by her daughters, Carrie (Bobbie) Greer, and Lynn S. Lopez, sons, James L. Hunter Jr. (Beth), Randy K. Hunter (Jacquline), Anthony R. Hunter (Teresa), Mike J. Hunter (Dawn) brother, Joe W. Smith (Jane), 17 grandchildren, and 26 great - grandchildren whom will all miss her dearly.

She was greeted in Heaven by her loving husband, James, parents, Melvin and Carol Smith, and brothers, Bill Smith (Judy), Kenny Smith, and Eddie Smith (Debbie).

A visitation will take place on Thursday, May 8th 2025 from 11:00-12:00PM at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home - Midtown Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66604. Funeral services will begin at 12:00PM with Pastor Kilgo officiating. Graveside interment will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery. Immediately afterward, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life for Betty at Christ Lutheran Church, 3509 SW Burlingame Road, Topeka, KS 66611.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Christ Lutheran Church or the American Legion Auxiliary of Kansas.

The service will be live streamed, to view the service, please click the link here: Betty Hunter Live Stream

To share a memory of Betty or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guest book below.