Betty Dodge

Betty Lou West Garmon Dodge of Moody, a beloved daughter of The King, peacefully entered into the arms of her Saviour on November 29, 2024, at the age of 70. Betty was born on December 31, 1953, in Gatesville to the late James Edward West, Jr. and Leona Marie (Smith) West. She grew up in Oglesby, where she found many lifetime friends. After graduation, she married the love of her life, Tim Garmon. They settled in Moody, Texas, where they spent 38 years together until his passing. Throughout her life, Betty devoted herself to serving God. She spent many years working with children and youth at Willow Grove Baptist Church, helping them grow spiritually by teaching them the truth of God’s word. Her deep faith led her door to door in Pendleton, encouraging the community and sharing the Good News of Jesus.

In addition to her service at church, Betty operated a home daycare for many years, providing a loving environment for children to grow and learn. She cared for each child as if they were her own, showing them compassion, attention, and the heart of a mother. Betty also had a deep love and respect for the elderly, often serving as a caregiver for those in need.

Betty’s life was a living testament of God’s love, grace, and mercy. God’s scripture was written on her heart, and she was always able to recite it in any situation when needed.

Betty’s life was a beautiful reflection of Christ’s love—a love that she shared freely and unconditionally with all she encountered.

She was a devoted member of Trinity Fellowship Church in McGregor, where she met Bobby Dodge and continued to minister together until his passing. On one occasion, Brother West encouraged the congregation to fast, pray, and really listen to God’s voice. During this fasting, Betty felt led by God to create The Joy Group, a women’s ministry focused on uplifting and encouraging one another: Psalm 30:5 “Weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning.”

Betty will be remembered for her generous heart, compassionate spirit, warm hospitality, and her devotion to her faith, family, and friends. Betty loved her children, grandchildren, and family with great passion. Her legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

She is preceded in death by her first husband, Tim Garmon, late husband, Bobby Dodge, parents and brothers, James Earl West, Joe Travis West, and Oral Lee West.

She is survived by three children, TJ Garmon (Jennifer) of Temple, Jamie Taylor (Jason) of McGregor, and Steven Garmon Brashear (Cindy) of Nebraska, bonus daughter Elaine Fielder; Five grandchildren: Jessi Moran (Riddock), Hannah and Kinsley Garmon, Jet and Jase Taylor, two step-children Hollie Ustanik (Todd) and Lance Dodge (Megan); Step-grandchildren Kortlyn, Kaden, and Kwest Dodge; Brothers: Donald West (Gladys), Thomas West (Shirley), Richard West (Patsy); Sisters: Peggy Finkenbinder (Vernon), Judy Bodnar (Gary), Tawana Nance (Tommy), Kathy Foshee (Darren); sister-in-law: Ronda; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.