Bettye Ann Pursley, passed away peacefully at Dundy County Hospital on July 12, 2026. Bettye was born on August 4, 1932 in Benkelman, NE to Henry and Leone (Vanderford) Frenzen. Bettye grew up in Benkelman and attended school, graduating from Benkelman high school class of 1950. On September 23, 1951 she married the love of her life, Jack Pursley.

The young couple moved west to the Denver, CO area and spent a few years in the city, starting their family and later returning to Dundy County in 1960. Upon their return, Bettye went to work for Leon Hines Law office, which led to her working for the Dundy County Extension Office managing the Benkelman Housing Authority.

When she wasn’t busy working, Bettye could be found doing needle work, crocheting and sewing of afghans and table clothes were a specialty. Everyone in the family received one of Bettye’s afghans at some point.

She loved watching her beloved huskers in any sport. Win lose or draw, Bettye was an avid husker. She was a proud member of the Red Hat Society for several decades and she loved Christmas. So much so, you could find Christmas decorations year-round at her home at Blue Point where she loved the sunsets.

Bettye will be remembered and missed for her amazing lasagnas. Anytime the church needed help, Bettye was ready and willing to bake a famous lasagna.

Bettye is survived by her sons, Gary (Joan), Kevin (Lynn) and Ron (Kathy); her daughters, Vicki League and Darci (Mark) Newman; 10 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and several extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jack and her brother, John.

Visitation has been scheduled from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Sunday, July 19 at Benkelman Memorial Chapel. A Funeral Service will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 20 at Zion Lutheran Church in Benkelman with Pastor Jim Gleason officiating. Interment to follow at Benkelman cemetery.

If you would prefer to leave a memorial, donations may be made to the Dundy County Library in honor of Bettye.