In Memory

Betty Jean 'BJ' Wampler

May 17, 1925 - December 21, 2007

Married William James 'Pete' Wampler - August 17, 2007

Son William Michael - born August 1, 1949

Son Jon Randolph - born July 18, 1951

I remember the first time I met Betty. (Everybody in Marion called her Betty. She didn't become BJ until she and Pete moved to Tucson in 1992.) Boy was I surprised and intimidated.

Since Jon was from the "small" town of Marion (40,000) as compared to Anderson (80,000), I didn't expect to walk into a home that looked like it could have been in Architectural Digest . . . open floor plan, white polished marble tiles in the enrty and halls, lavender carpet in the living room, modern art on the walls . . . absolutely breathtaking. It was such a contrast to my family home that was early American and cluttered.

I was met at the car by Trina the Pit Bull who didn't know me and was not sure I should get out. Jon helped me out of the car and introduced me to the dog. Once Trina figured out I belonged there she protected me just like all the other family members.

Standing in the front door was Betty. All of 5 feet tall she still scared the poop out of me. Her size had nothing to do with her huge personality and command presence. I was to learn that she was the boss in the family, no questions asked.

Over the years Betty and I had our conflicts. But in the end we shared a genuine affection that went beyond being in-laws. I turned out to be the daughter she never had and we had lots in common.

Although Betty was always a gracious hostess it took me years to really become comfortable in her home or in her presence. Her high standards, which she passed on to her son Jon, were always so intimidating.

After Margot was born many things changed. I will never forget how much love Betty and Pete lavished on Margot. While both Betty and Pete loved their sons very much, affection was not often shown in their family. The arrival of Margot, a girl, seemed to give them permission to show their love outwardly. Margot ended up being a great gift to the Wampler family on that basis alone.

I'll miss BJ. I like that name better for her now. She became a very positive person in the last decade of her life. I can't tell you how often I heard her say, "Aren't we lucky?"

Yes we are BJ. We are lucky you were in our lives. See you on the other side.