Betsy "Bets" May James

Betsy May James of Leedey, Oklahoma was born in Elk City, Oklahoma on March 29, 1954 to Betty May Clem and Lee Lorn Clem. She was the youngest of three daughters. She passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026. She was not alone in her final moments; she was surrounded by love of family.

She spent her entire life in the Leedey community, graduating from Leedey High School in 1972.

Betsy was known by everyone who met her for her servant’s heart. She spent much of her life caring for others and giving her time to her community. She worked in school food service for 32 years and especially fond of the children she served each day. Betsy also dedicated her time as a volunteer leader with 4-H and received several awards recognizing her commitment to serving others.

Betsy loved be around her grandchildren, who she often called her very best friends. She took great joy in the simple moments spent with them. She also cherished time with her great niece and great nephews, who brought her endless smiles.

In her spare time, Betsy enjoyed counted cross-stitch, reading, and spending time at Senior Citizen’s Center. It was not unusual to find her at the post office sending greeting cards to those she loved. She might even be caught clogging in her kitchen.

Her faith was an important part of her life. She regularly attended Leedey Methodist Church, participated in Bible study, and kept up with her daily devotionals that guided her life and kindness towards others.

Betsy’s warmth and generosity touched many lives in the Leedey community. She spent time volunteering at the Leedey Senior Citizen’s Center, serving many years as a volunteer with the Roger Mills County 4-H program and working in children’s ministries at the Leedey Methodist Church. Wherever she went she carried a spirit of compassion and a willingness to serve.

Cherishing her memory is her daughter Annie (Chris) Chaddick and daughter LeeAnn, Isla (Dalton) Wright. Grandchildren Roper Wright, Gus Wright, Kashion Wright, Carter Chaddick, Cooper Chaddick, sister Dixie and the Ferrell family.

Betsy was preceded in death by her parents, her oldest sister Carol, and nephew Adam Ferrell.

Those who knew Betsy will remember her as a devoted mother, grandmother, great aunt, sister, friend and neighbor whose life reflected the values of kindness, faith and service.

Memorial donations may be made to the Roger Mills County 4H, Leedey Methodist Church: memo- Youth Group, or the Leedey Senior Citizens.
c/o Shaw Funeral Home
PO Box 276
Vici, OK 73859