Bette Whitlow

Bette C. Whitlow, 91, died peacefully in her sleep at home on September 3, 2014. She was born on September 9th, 1922, in East St. Louis, Illinois. Her father, who was an engineer, moved his family to Paducah in 1939. Bette earned her Associates Degree at Paducah Junior College. She worked at radio station WPAD and produced a show called “Women in the News.” Later, she worked at the Kentucky Ordinance Works in the chemistry lab testing acids used in the production of dynamite for World War II.
She married Henry Whitlow on August 1, 1950. They had two children, Becky and Mark.
An avid reader, she loved the McCracken County Library and served on its Board of Directors of the Market House Museum and was a volunteer guide at the American Quilters Museum. She was a member of the Little Garden Club and the Kalisophic Club.
Bette loved her work at the church. For many years, she served as a third grade Sunday School teacher and developed life-long friendships with the students she served. She worked in the United Methodist Women’s organization, helped needlepoint kneelers for the communion rail and served as a greeter for church services and special events. Her donation to the church building fund led to the naming of Whitlow Hall in loving memory of her husband, who was a long-time leader of the church.
Her love of animals took her to many interesting places. She traveled to the Galapagos Islands, off the coast of Ecuador. She marveled at the huge tortoises, exotic birds and friendly seals. She and her husband sponsored many family trips to the beach. Bette avidly collected seashells and took great delight in watching the dolphins play in the surf. She loved being with her children and grandchildren and organized games and activities to keep everyone involved.
Bette loved Christmas. In the tradition set by her mother, she baked a vast array of Christmas cookies which she shared with family, friends and neighbors.
She remained active until the end of her life. The day before she died, she watered and weeded her small vegetable garden and expressed pride in the quality of her tomatoes and other vegetables.
She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca A. (Bruce) Guthrie of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia; one son, Mark C. Whitlow, of Paducah; one granddaughter, Beth Guthrie of the country of Jordan ; one grandson, Stephen Guthrie of Washington, D.C.; and her beloved cat, Felix.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Perce and Florence Clement; her Husband, Henry; and one sister, Suzanne Clement.
A service of Death and Resurrection celebrating Bette’s life will be held at Broadway United Methodist Church on Sunday, September 7th, 2014, at 2pm with the Rev. Joe Beal officiating. Friends may visit family members from 1pm until the service hour in the sanctuary of the church. A graveside service at Mount Kenton Cemetery will follow immediately.
Donations in honor of Bette’s life may be made to Broadway United Methodist Church or to the McCracken County Humane Society, 4000 Coleman Rd., Paducah, Ky. 42001, or to any charity of the donor’s choice. Bette lived life joyfully and with a profound appreciation of the natural world. Her enthusiasm and love inspired many people. Well done, good and faithful servant.
Lindsey Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.lindseyfuneral.com

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