Betty Ann Harrison, 97, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family Friday, April 11, 2025 in Columbia, Missouri. Betty was born on November 12, 1927 in Edina, Missouri. She was the daughter of Samuel Jr. and Frances (Matlock) Garland. She was married to Don F. Harrison on June 13, 1953 in Edina at St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Following Don’s service in the Navy, they settled in Edina in 1956. Betty was an active member in her community and church while also raising their family. She was a Girl Scout leader, member and former President of St. Ann’s Altar Society, and delivered Meals-On-Wheels from Edina Nutrition Site with her best friend, Madelyn O’Brien. One of her most notable moments was shaking hands with St. Pope John Paul II in Rome, June 1993.
Betty’s crowning achievement was being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She and Donnie took pride in their large family. One of their favorite traditions was the annual Harrison Family Lake trip which has lasted 55 years and counting. She loved playing cards – especially when she was winning pitch, bridge, and/or manipulation. She was a huge sports fan, and left no referee unchallenged. Her favorite teams were the St. Louis Cardinals, Mizzou Tigers, and most importantly, any team of her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. Best of luck to the opposing team.
Surviving are her five children: Lisa (Stephen) Kriegshauser of Columbia, MO; Ron (Monnie) of Branson, MO; Brian (Kelly) of Columbia, MO; Kevin of Grand Junction, CO; and Staci Blackwell of Columbia, MO. 16 grandchildren: Nicole Johnston, Sean, Lauren (Brandon) Springer, Kevin (Chelsea), Daniel, Derek Kriegshauser, Alex, Matthew, Brandon (Monica), Zach (Chelsea), Grant (Alex) Blackwell, Brooke (Eric) Meyer, Clay, Tyler, Hunter (Sherice) Blackwell, and Gabe. 13 great-grandchildren: Wren, Claire Johnston, Charli, Graham Johnston, Lucas Springer, Mattie Mae, Beck, Benton Springer, Liam, Blake Springer, Sammy, Abram, and Miles Meyer. Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Don; her parents, Samuel Jr. and Frances; her sisters, Virginia and Ramona; a brother, Robert; and a cousin, Sue, who was like a sister.
Visitation: Tuesday, April 15th from 6:30p.m. – 8:00p.m. at Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home in Edina. Rosary at 6:00p.m.
Mass: Wednesday, April 16th at 10:00a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Edina, MO followed by a Christian burial in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.
Memorials: St. Joseph Catholic Church or Nutrition Site – Knox County. Memorials may be mailed to Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1, Edina, MO 63537.
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal.
Love leaves a memory no one can steal.