Betty Ann Stidham, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2024, at Harbor Hospice of Beaumont. She was born on February 10, 1938, in Beaumont, Texas to Morris Richardson and Ouida Merle Richardson.
Throughout her life, Betty made a lasting impact on those around her. She dedicated ten years of service as the school secretary for the Beaumont Independent School District before retiring. Betty's warmth and welcoming nature made her an exceptional fit for this role. She brightened the lives of students and faculty alike with her kindness.
Family always held a special place in Betty's heart. She cherished yearly vacations spent with her loved ones, creating cherished memories that will forever be treasured. Betty had an infectious smile that could light up any room she entered. Her expressive words of "I Love You" were a constant reminder of her affectionate spirit.
Betty embraced life fully and found joy in various interests. She had a flair for fashion and adored being dressed up with full accessories. Cooking and baking were among her favorite hobbies; the aroma of her creations filled the house during family gatherings. Christmas was a particularly meaningful holiday for Betty; she poured her heart into making it magical for everyone around her. Another special tradition she enjoyed was Black Friday shopping with her family for an impressive thirty years.
Faith played an integral role in Betty's life as she was an active member of Fellowship Baptist Church for over fifty years. Her dedication to serving others extended beyond the walls of the church as she taught Sunday School as well as Awanas with passion and devotion.
In recent years, Betty faced challenges with strength and grace as she battled Alzheimer's disease for thirteen years. Despite the difficulties presented by this illness, Betty's spirit continued to shine brightly and her infectious smile never wavered. She remained deeply loved and cherished by her family and friends.
Betty Ann Stidham will be dearly missed by her daughter, Donna Bihm and husband, Alan of Nederland, and her son, Michael Stidham of Lynchburg, Virginia. Her memory will also be forever treasured by her grandchildren; Danielle Bihm, Catherine LaPoint and husband, Dillon, Nathan Stidham and wife, Shelby, as well as Bethany Arthur and husband, Brennan. Additionally, she leaves behind great-grandchildren, Weston Arthur, Ella Grace LaPoint, and one expected arrival, Samuel Joseph LaPoint.
Betty is preceded in death by her loving parents, her devoted husband, James Troy "Honey" Stidham, and her dear sister, Judy Richardson.
A visitation in honor of Betty's life will be held on Friday, January 26, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Melancon~Levingston Funeral Home in Nederland. The funeral service celebrating Betty's life will take place on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at 10:00 AM also at Melancon~Levingston Funeral Home in Nederland. Following the funeral service, interment will be held at 2:00 PM at Magnolia Springs Cemetery, 8700 FM 1005, Kirbyville, Texas 75956.
Serving as pallbearers include Alan Bihm, Dillon LaPoint, Nathan Stidham, Wesley Beard, Steve Quast and Coby Herford.
Betty Ann Stidham leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and cherished memories. Her remarkable strength and unwavering faith serve as an inspiration for all who knew her. She will forever remain in our hearts as we carry her spirit forward.