Betsy Ann Hodson, 95, of Richmond, passed away Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond.

Betsy was born on June 20, 1931, in Ray County, the daughter of Joseph and Iva (Wrisinger) Thompson. She was united in marriage to Billie “Bill” Davis Hodson of Richmond on December 24, 1950; he preceded her in death on August 30, 2017.

Survivors include: two daughters, Ann Willard of Everton and Nicki Hodson-Commer of Richmond; daughter-in-law, Anita Hodson of St. Martin, Virgin Islands; four grandchildren: Betsy Willard, Adam (Claire) Willard, William J. (Elly) Commer, III, and Jaryn Commer; and three great-grandchildren: George, Violet, and Cordelia Willard. Many nieces, nephews, and grand nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to her parents and husband, Betsy was preceded in death by her son, William “Bill” Marion Hodson, and her 11 siblings.

Betsy was raised in rural Ray County, where she attended Palton School through the third grade. Her family later moved to Richmond, where she continued her education. A bright and determined student, Betsy excelled in geometry and advanced academically, skipping the seventh grade. While attending high school, she worked for Mrs. Denton on Main Street in Richmond. It was during this time that Betsy developed a fondness for the home and knew that someday she wanted to live there.

Betsy's strong Christian faith was the foundation upon which she built her life. As a young adult, she was baptized alongside her father-in-law, Marion Hodson, in a beautiful stream west of Richmond, a meaningful occasion in her lifelong walk with the Lord. She was an active member of Christian Union Church for six years and later devoted 60 years of faithful membership and service to the Disciples of Christ/United Christian Presbyterian Church. Throughout those years, Betsy served on the church board and as a deacon, generously giving her time and talents to the church she loved.

A woman with a true servant's heart, Betsy believed in putting her faith into action through service to others. Her dedication to her church and community was evident in the countless hours she volunteered and the many lives she touched. She served as Church Courtesy Chairperson for over 20 years and Bike and Build Chairperson for more than five years.

Her commitment to serving others was recognized when she received the Woman of the Year Award. Betsy was also involved with the American Cancer Society for 40 years and serving as Relay for Life Chairperson for 10 years. Additionally, she served as the Salvation Army Bell Ringers Coordinator for six years, volunteered at the Salvation Army Thrift Store for 20 years, and faithfully served as the TOPS Club Weight Recorder for 35 years. For Betsy, serving her community was never simply an obligation, but rather a reflection of her Christian faith and genuine love for her neighbors.

Of all the blessings and joys in Betsy's life, children held an especially dear place in her heart. She had a remarkable gift for caring for little ones and took great pride in the many children entrusted to her care. From 1964 until 1998, Betsy operated an in-home babysitting service, lovingly caring for 226 children and becoming a cherished part of countless Ray County families. With a smile, she would proudly say that she had raised most of Ray County. To Betsy, these children were much more than those she babysat; each held a special place in her heart, and the love and care she shared with them left a lasting impression on generations of families throughout the community.

Betsy will be remembered as a devoted Christian woman whose life was a beautiful example of faith, hard work, humility, and selfless service. She possessed a remarkable work ethic, a compassionate heart, and an unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed. Whether through her church, her community involvement, or the countless children she lovingly cared for, Betsy spent her life making a difference in the lives of others. Her legacy of faith, kindness, and devotion to her fellow neighbors will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the United Presbyterian Church. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with memorial services will be held on Monday, November 9, 2026, at the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M., with services to follow at 11:00 A.M. Inurnment will be held at a later date. Please remember to share your memories of Betsy with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.