Betty Swearengin

With deep sorrow and profound gratitude for a life well lived, we mourn the loss of our mom and grandmother, Betty Swearengin.

Betty Jo Muckleroy was born in Bronson, Texas, on January 16, 1937, to Albert Muckleroy and Pearl Ingle Muckleroy. Betty entered eternal peace on October 22, 2021.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Pearl Muckleroy, husband, Charles Swearengin, son, Timothy O’Riley, and brother, Bill Muckleroy.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Kim Clark and her husband, Rob, of Houston, TX.; beloved grandchildren Sarah, Currie, and Kate Clark; and many more dear relatives and loyal friends.

After growing up in East Texas and graduating from Pineland High School, Betty met and married Jim O’Riley in 1956. They moved to Nederland and built a life in the community with their two children. Betty was a dedicated and active member of Mid-County Baptist Church, proudly serving as church Secretary. In 1991, Betty began a new chapter when she married Charles Swearengin. They built a home together in Lumberton, were active members at Fletcher Emaneul Church Alive, and enjoyed many years together traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Betty’s legacy is her deep faith in God and boundless love for her family and friends. Being a mother and grandmother brought her the greatest joy and satisfaction. Her “Grans,” as she called them, were the apple of her eye.  She cherished every moment she spent with them.

Betty lived her life to the fullest, always full of love, humor, and laughter. She had close friends from her early school days through recent years. She never met a stranger; whether a new neighbor, in a restaurant, or even hospital, people wanted to know her and spend time with her. When Betty made a friend, they were a friend for life. She never lost touch. Some of her fondest memories are of the years that she and Charles traveled around the country with their dear friends, Janice and Curtis May. They made new friends along the way that she kept in touch with long after their travel days were in the past.

While she faced many health challenges in her life, she never let them diminish her vibrant spirit. The family is especially grateful for the care she received over many years from Dr. Robert Hood, friend and nurse, Sue Henderson, and the staff at Beaumont Endocrinology. Betty learned to live life with diabetes for over forty years and was determined that it would not define hers. When she was recently diagnosed with cancer, she was determined to live every day with grace and perseverance, and she never lost faith in God. Betty will be deeply missed by her loving family and friends.

A gathering of Betty’s family and friends will begin at 10:00 a.m., with her funeral service at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 30, 2021, at Broussard’s, 490 Cemetery Road, Silsbee.  Her interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the charity of your choice.

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