Betty Darlene (Early) Squibb

Betty Darlene (Early) Squibb was born March 3, 1929, to George and Opal Early in Fairview, Oklahoma and passed away Monday, June 22, 2026, at the age of 97. 

Raised the daughter of a railroad man, Betty lived in dozens of locations growing up, including Marshfield, which held a special place in her heart. She graduated from Springfield High in 1947. 

After a whirlwind romance after meeting at church, in May 1952 she was united in marriage to James Lee Squibb. The newlyweds moved to Hamilton Air Force Base, California, where he flew jet interceptors before being sent to Korea. She frequently told stories of fond memories while living in California. While in Korea their first son Steve was born, who was later followed by Cheryl, Tim, Christina and Julie. 

A proud farmer’s wife, and eventual mother of five, she also earned a teaching degree from Southwest Missouri State College, now Missouri State University.

During her 25-year career as an elementary teacher, she taught mostly at Bois D’Arc Elementary in the Ash Grove School District, where she left a lasting impression on generations of students—many of whom visited her long after retirement and still remembered her as one of their favorite teachers.

In retirement she and Jim were active travelers, square dancers, and members of Bois D’Arc United Methodist Church. Even at the age of 97, she could recount childhood memories and almost any detail of her life with more clarity than many could half her age. She was a beloved “Nana” to many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, supporting them wholeheartedly and guiding them with love, wisdom, and just enough opinion to keep them on the right path. Her family will feel her absence deeply, but they will carry forward her greatest legacy: a life centered on love, faith and family. 

She was preceded in death by husband James Lee, children Christina and Tim, parents George and Opal Early, sister Deanna Hobbs, several aunts and uncles.

She is survived by children Steve (wife Pam), Cheryl Cadorette and Julie Griot; grandchildren Alissa Hurley (husband JJ), Adam Cadorette (wife Amanda), Travis Cadorette (wife Tongtong), Suzanne Richter (husband Rob), Ryan Squibb (wife Morgan), Corey Griot (wife Felicia), Cameron Griot (wife Teri); great-grandchildren Natalie and Will Hurley, Jordan and Evan Cadorette, Cole and Charlotte Richter, Beau Squibb, Evie and Lillian Griot, and Mavis Griot. She is also survived by her beloved niece Anne Julian Bierman and nephews Kerry and Chris Julian.  

A special thanks goes to the dedicated staff at The Manor at Elfindale for their years of wonderful care, as well to Preferred Hospice for their attentiveness and kindness in her final months.

Memorial contributions can be given to Bois D’Arc United Methodist Church and left at the funeral home.

Visitation will be from 6:00PM-8:00PM, Friday, June 26, 2026, at Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove. Graveside services will be 10:00AM, Saturday, June 27, 2026 at Yeakley Cemetery, Bois D' Arc, MO.