Betty Louise Whitesell

Betty Louise Jackson Whitesell passed away Friday, May 10, 2024 at the age of 94. She was born on April 29, 1930 to Rena Mae and Austin Brewer Jackson, in Shawnee, Oklahoma. She was preceded in death by her four brothers, Bob, Bud, Charles and Joe. She is survived by her younger sister, Mary Helen. 

The family moved to Indianapolis, Indiana around 1940. Betty went to Shortridge High School and married John L. "Jack" Whitesell after graduation. Jack went to work for Allison's Division of GM, and they had five children, Linda Louise Fisher (Don), John Michael (Kathy), Richard Wayne (dec), Jackie Jo (Kent) and Judy Ann (David). Jack and Betty helped plant Eagledale Baptist Church, which became the center of most of their family life for several decades. They had several careers, serving as house parents in a children's home in Chattanooga, Tennessee while Jack went back to school to be ordained into the ministry, pastoring Faith Baptist Church in Morton, Illinois, and serving again as house parents in Valparaiso, Indiana, before retiring in Indianapolis. 

Betty's greatest joy, besides her relationship with Jesus Christ, was her 13 grandchildren and their spouses, 31 great-grandchildren and several spouses, and 3 great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, many of whom called her "Aunt Bou". Betty was a strong woman with deep convictions and faith, and she was loved and respected by all her family and friends. She will be greatly missed.

Ten years ago, Betty and Jack moved to St. Augustine Home for the Aged on W. 86th Street, where Jack, her husband of 61 years, passed away in 2018. They were graciously and lovingly cared for by the Little Sisters of the Poor. The family thanks Mother Maria Christine, all the nuns, nurses, aides and staff who nurtured Jack and Betty and made their lives comfortable, safe and secure, always eagerly welcoming family and friends who visited.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 1 at Indiana Funeral Care, 8151 Allisonville Rd. Visitation 10 AM, service 11 AM.