Betty Ray Howell

Betty Ray Howell, 96, passed away on December 10, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of strength, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Graveside service is scheduled for Monday, December 15, 2025 at McDonald Cemetery, Lakewood, NM with Pastor Lee Roy Howard officiating. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Betty was born on December 27, 1928 to John and Grace (Gholson) Smith in Dayton, New Mexico.

Betty lived her life with an honesty as sharp as her aim and a heart that never hesitated to show up for the people she loved. Blunt, giving, and always present, Betty was the Granny who never missed a game, the one cheering loudest in the gym her unmistakable voice ringing out, “Get that ball!” She was also the one ready to load everyone up for shopping trips or a bite to eat, always happy with a small Dr Pepper and a Burger King burger in hand.

Betty spent her life as a dedicated ranch wife, married to her one true love, James Howard Howell. Together they built a life rooted in hard work, loyalty, and the rhythms of the land they cared for. Even after Howard’s passing, Betty continued her daily rounds across the ranch, checking on her cows each one with a name and a story, from Bashful and Mascara to the unforgettable names.

She taught every one of her grandchildren to drive on the old country roads, her patience far surpassing Grandpa’s. And with her steady hands and expert eye, she could shoot the head off a rattlesnake at fifty yards — a skill that became family legend.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Howard Howell; sister, Johnnie Guthrie.

She is survived by son, Wayne Howell; daughter, Louise Kidd and husband, Tim; son, Alan Howell and wife, Cheryl; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; brother, Jimmy Smith; sister, Mollie Petsonk; and numerous nieces and nephews. A testament to the blessings she counted daily and the love she poured into her family.

At 96 years old, Betty Ray Howell leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, grit, and love. Her family will forever carry her voice, her lessons, and her spirit with them on back roads, in gym bleachers, and anywhere they gather together.

May she rest in peace, knowing she lived a truly blessed life.

Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com