Betty Ham, of Durant, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, at the age of 80. Her journey began as the beloved daughter of Clarence and Opal (Russell) Phillips, born on November 8, 1944, in Caddo, Oklahoma. On December 26, 1961, Betty married John Ham, with whom she built her family and created many memories until his death. Betty later married Louis Burson on June 2, 2008, sharing a life of devotion until his death.
For 23 years, Betty worked as a baker at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where she was renowned for her homemade cinnamon rolls that brought comfort and joy to many. Her dedication to her craft was matched only by her commitment to her community. As a board member of Hands of Hope, Betty worked tirelessly to uplift those in need. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and as a member of Grace Baptist Church, she served on numerous committees, always with a special place in her heart for the food committees. Her interests were a reflection of her generous spirit. She found joy in cooking and baking, not just for pleasure but as a way to bring people together. She enjoyed the outdoors, especially the thrill of fishing. Her generosity was evident with her involvement in the Special Olympics and feeding the homeless. She also took great delight in watching school athletic events.
Betty is survived by her loving daughters, Norma Faye Ham and Theresa Ham, both of Durant. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Michael Ham, Dylan Ham, Sr., and Diane Stewart; her five great-grandchildren, including John Michael Ham, Dylan Ham, Jr., and Jesse John Ham, and her great-great-grandchild. Betty also leaves behind her brothers, Troy Phillips, Donald Phillips, and Charles (Hop) Phillips, along with her sisters, LaVerne Nazworth, Mary Knight, and Susie Smith, her brother-in-law Sam Ham and sister-in-law Martha Grant, along with many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Opal Phillips; her first husband, John Henry Ham; her second husband, Louis Burson; her daughter, Mary Kay Ham; her son, Johnny Ray Ham; and her brother, JR Phillips.
Her family will receive friends for her Family Hour from 7-8 p.m. on Monday, March 17, 2025, at Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home. Her funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at 10 a.m. in the Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home Chapel with Brother Anthony Williams officiating. Betty will be laid to rest in Pleasant Hill Cemetery following her funeral service.
Those serving as pallbearers are Michael Ham, Dylan Ham, Justin Wells, David Stewart, Jermery McQuilliam, Dustin Zertuche, and Patrick Morgan. Hop Phillips will serve as an honorary pallbearer.
Services are under the care of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home, 121 N. Fifth Ave. in Durant.
www.holmescoffeymurray.com