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Bette Crawford Gillum, 82, of Aubrey, Texas passed away on February 14, 2024. She was born on May 5, 1941 to Hazel and Alvin Crawford. We invite you to celebrate the life of a devoted family member and friend. When one looks back on the life of Bette, her joy of decorating for Christmas will be a fond memory and one which she recreated year after year. Her collection of snowmen and Christmas dishes will bring a smile to the faces of many. She was known as the "crafter and decorator" of the family. Bette was also the "doer" of the family. She became the caregiver to her parents in their declining years and a moral support to all her family. She worked hard over the years to provide for her children. Her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were her greatest source of joy in her life. Bette can also be described as the "sociable" one of the family. She loved to share her cooking and baking with her family and friends and these delicious creations will certainly be missed. Over the years living in Aubrey, she created and maintained many life long friendships (Jane, Lynell, Mary Ellen, Joy Ann, Hester, and others). For many years Bette enjoyed watching the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers. Back in the day, Lance Rentzel and Craig Morton could do no wrong in her book (she defended them no matter how poorly they played). The Texas Rangers and, especially, Michael Young were dearly loved by her. Bette is survived by her children, Kathy Lefler of Dallas, Mike Gillum (wife Lori) of Whitesboro, and Lance Gillum (wife Penny) of Aubrey. She is survived by grandchildren Kyle Lefler (wife Daniela), Kory Lefler (wife Azlin), Ginny Lamb (husband Corey), Katie Laughlin (husband Zach), Ryne Gillum (wife Holly), Jake Gillum, Madison Gillum, and eight great grandchildren. She is survived by her brother, Billy Tom Crawford (wife Mary Lou), of Waxahachie, nephews Craig Crawford (wife Arinda), James Ed Crawford, and nieces Peggy Crawford, Karen Murchison (husband Sam) and Glenna Bollen (husband Harmen). Bette was preceded in death by her parents, brother James Alvin Crawford, and her sister Dorris Strickland. "Mother," "Grandmother," "Aunt," and "Friend," are the words we use to remember the creative soul that left us with so many memories. We wish for her peace and are grateful for the time we spent with her. Her presence will be in our hearts forever. A visitation will be held at 1:00PM, Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at Slay Memorial Chapel in Aubrey, TX. The funeral service will follow at 2:00PM with Buddy Owens officiating. Interment will be at Belew Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at www.slaymemorialfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Bradley R. Shotts and Slay Memorial Funeral Center.

Tributes

Bette J. Gillum

May 5, 1941 - February 14, 2024