At 6:15 a.m. Sunday, March 30, 2025, Betty Jane Sanson, 84, departed this world to join her beloved husband, Jerry Ray Sanson. Together, they will continue their kind, caring and gentle demeanor in heaven. Betty Jane Coon (Sanson) was born July 4, 1940, in Milan, Mo., the daughter of Earl Coon (died Dec. 3, 1965) and Fern Leolan Harrelson (also deceased).

Betty’s paternal grandparents were Austin Coon and Mary Almira Arrasmith. Her maternal grandparents were Alec Lester Harrelson and Margaret Marie Hamilton. She was the oldest of five children and was preceded in death by two of her sisters, Linda and Carmy (died March 18, 2025).

Surviving is her brother, Dale Coon of Philadelphia, Mo.; and Bonnie Long of Chillicothe.

At 18 years old, Betty Jane Coon (Sanson) worked at the Chillicothe A&W Root Beer Drive-In. She captured the eye of Jerry Ray Sanson, who also was 18 years old while he was dining. After a few dates, Jerry Ray knew she was the one. Quoting him, “I was so proud of her, I took her home to meet my momma.”

Following a traditional courtship, on Sept. 6, 1959, Jerry and Betty were wed in Wheeling. Saying “I do” kicked off a partnership of love, fun, loyalty and enjoyment of all the goodness that life could offer.

Following 61 years of marriage, they produced a legacy of a loving family embracing life and enjoying travel. Their marriage and devotion to each other is a testament to God’s symbolic emotional and physical joining of husband and wife.

Jerry and Betty were blessed with two children: their oldest son, Dr. Dale Ray Sanson, Ph.D., of Kearney; and Gary Ray Sanson (married to Kim McElwee) of Excelsior Springs.

Jerry and Betty were bestowed with two grandsons, Brody Ray Sanson and Jacob Simmons. Jerry and Betty enjoyed their children’s children.

Brody and Lindsay Sanson have two children, Kenadee and Leighton Sanson. Jacob and Melissa Simmons have one child, Amora.

Jerry, Betty and family enjoyed numerous excursions within the United States to explore geographic and cultural diversities. However, with all the abundant sightseeing, Jerry and Betty always looked forward to heading “back home” to share their experiences with family and friends.

Funeral services for Betty Jane Sanson were scheduled for Thursday, April 3, at Bross & Spidle Chapel, 217 W. Broadway, Excelsior Springs. Visitation was scheduled for 10-11 a.m., with a service to follow. Graveside services were to follow at Crown Hill Cemetery in Excelsior Springs.

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