Betty Louise Birch

The journey of Betty Louise Fansler Birch began on June 20, 1931, the day she took her first breath, and concluded on November 21, 2024, when she took her last breath at her home in DeFuniak Springs, FL. The chapters in between tell the remarkable story of her life. 

Betty was the third of four daughters born to CJ and Carlene Benton Fansler. Her sisters—Marie Johnson (d), Dorthell Webb (d), and Maxine Nelson—shared a childhood in Searcy, AR, where the Fansler household was filled with the love of God. 

She married WWII veteran Haston G. Story (d), and together they welcomed five children into the world: Diannia Crum (Robert) DeFuniak Springs, FL, Redginald Story (Anne) (d) Searcy, AR, Debi Maddox (Mike) Palmer Lake, CO, Ronnie Story (Sissy) from Romance, AR, and Randall Story (deceased) (Melinda) from Searcy, AR. Betty was also blessed with grandchildren, including Jon Rush, Chris Rush, Michael Rush, Rachel Maddox (d), Jesse Maddox, Katie Lindsey, Kelly Brittain, Justin Story, Regina Sinkey, and Austin Story, along with 33 great-grandchildren and one more in memory of Bella Story (d). 

Following a divorce, Betty found love again with John W. Birch. The couple spent most of their 53 years of marriage in Decatur, IL, and Judsonia. AR, until John's passing, which marked the end of a beautiful chapter in her life. 

 Betty's life was rich and varied; she devoted herself to raising her family while passionately pursuing interests in Bible studies, sewing, interior design, and launching various businesses alongside John. A highlight of her life was traveling to the Holy Land, where she experienced the scriptures in a profound way. 

Together, Betty and John embraced adventure by learning to fly and owning their own aircraft, exploring many destinations across the U.S. and the Caribbean. 

Known for her inner and outer beauty, Betty’s prayer was to be remembered for her deep love of God and the scriptures. Her generosity extended to her family and those in need, and she cherished her loved ones wholeheartedly. The warmth of her spirit and her caring nature will be forever etched in the hearts of those who knew her. She was a member of the Assemblies of God. 

As we reflect on her life, we hold onto the promise of John 17:24: "Lord, you gave us our mother, and by faith we let her go into your loving hands." 

Funeral arrangements are as follows: Sunday, Dec 1, 2024, Floyd Assembly of God, 120 Church Rd. Searcy, AR. 

Visitation 2p, Service 3p, followed by Graveside Prayer and Internment

Flowers or Memorial contributions to Carmel Assembly of God, Missions, 1485 Carmel Church Rd, Bonifay, FL 32425, or Floyd Assembly of God, Missions, 120 Church Rd. Searcy, AR 72143