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BORN
1931
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Bette Burfield Obituary
With heavy hearts and deep love, we share the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dear friend, Bette June Weldy Burfield, who left this world peacefully on October 17, 2025, at the age of 94, with her children at her side.
Born on September 20, 1931, in the township of Vinyard, Lawrence County, Missouri, Bette spent her early years surrounded by the beauty and close-knit community of small-town life. At 19, she moved to Kansas City, where she began a new chapter full of adventure and independence. Her poise and spirit soon led her to Braniff International Airways, where she proudly served as a hostess. It was during this time she met Thomas George Burfield III, the love of her life.
Together, Bette and George made their home in Ballwin, Missouri, building a life and raising their family in the home they created on Little Hill Court. Later, Bette’s journey took her and her children to Palm Springs, California, where she managed the Desert Inn Fashion Plaza. Eventually, she returned to Ballwin, where she began a long and rewarding career with Trans World Airlines (TWA), remaining there until her retirement.
Bette embraced life with grace and curiosity. She loved traveling the world, tending to her garden, and cherishing time spent with family. Her warmth, elegance, and quiet strength touched everyone who knew her.
Bette is survived by her children, Thomas Craig Burfield (John Nellesen) of St. Louis, Missouri, and Robin Anne Christensen of Wildwood, Missouri; her grandchildren, Ashleigh Anne Sparks (Stephen Sparks) of Kansas City, Missouri, Cole Allen Christensen of Germany, Brooke Leigh Christensen of Chicago, Illinois, and Kennedy Katherine Christensen of Wildwood, Missouri; great-grandson Pierce Patrick Sparks of Kansas City, Missouri; and many extended family members and friends who will hold her memory close.
She was preceded in death by her parents George O. and Vida N. Weldy (née Sharon); brother Jerry (Maggie) Weldy; and former husband.
Services: Visitation will take place at the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Monday, October 27, from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:30 a.m. Interment at Lakewood Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Wings of Hope at https://wingsofhope.ngo/donate/. Friends may sign the family’s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.
Memorial Events
for Bette Burfield
Oct
27
Visitation
10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory
14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
Oct
27
Funeral service
11:30 a.m.
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory
14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
Oct
27
Interment
1:15 p.m.
Lakewood Park Cemetery
7330 Mackenzie Road, St. Louis, MO 63123
Funeral services provided by:
Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin14960 Manchester Road, Ballwin, MO 63011
Memories and Condolences
for Bette Burfield
8 Entries
Ruth Greene
Yesterday
Bette remains in my memory as one of my favorite people. She is missed.
Daryl Norman
October 26, 2025
I always enjoyed seeing & chatting with Bette at the 8 o’clock service at St. Martin’s. I also loved having her as an active participant in my “Ladies Who Lunch” group that evolved from the former Mary & Martha Guild. When Covid put a stop to our outings, I was delighted to learn that she could keep in touch via email & an occasional phone call. My husband’s illness eventually made that more difficult, but I’m so glad that when I finally saw her briefly for what would be the last time we were able to exchange a hug. I realize now that there is much about her full life that I never knew, but her smile & unassuming way will remain with me. May you be comforted in your loss by your own cherished memories.
Suzanne Ritter
October 22, 2025
"Thy will be done" Is what I prayed for . A more gracious lady for sure. Good memories and good times. So sorry for your loss and prayers for the family.
Mick, Karen, Paul & Karen Burfield
October 22, 2025
Dear Craig, Robin and Family,
We were so sad to hear about your mum. Although the distance meant we had only a few occasions together, we will cherish those memories with Bette.
Please know we are sending you all our love and strength during this horrible time.
Thinking of you,
Ellen Murphy
October 21, 2025
Craig, Robin and all the family...I only met your mom a couple of times but what a lovely person...and what a wonderful and full life. She will always be in your heart...mothers are special that way! ❤
Becky Roper Motley
October 20, 2025
Beautiful, Gracious Lady who led a most interesting Life! May her Family be comforted by sweet memories of Precious Times spent together!
Catherine Hughes
October 20, 2025
Dear Bette. You were an inspiration to your children. You were the mum and dad of the family, and I know how you loved them so much. Distance has kept us apart and I cannot be there but my thoughts and prayers are for you all. Fly high darling x
Fran Rice
October 20, 2025
My thoughts and prayers to you Craig and your family during this difficult times. You and your Mom had such a fabulous relationship for all the years that I have known you and you were such a good son to her my friend. Her passing was swift but I am glad you were there to hold her hand and show your love through it all. May your memories of your Mom keep you strong. Love you Craig!
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