Bettie J. Rock

Bettie, a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend was born to the late William James Sanders Sr. and Johnnie Mae Sanders on September 2, 1934 in Wichita, Kansas. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wiliiam Daniel Rock, parents, four brothers, Floyd, Isaac, William Jr., James (Jimmy) and three sisters; Irene, Fredrikia, Linda and beloved grandson, Pablo Sanders Jr.

Bettie attended school in Wichita, Kansas and later moved to Monrovia California before moving to Kansas City, Missouri to be closer to her family. She later moved to Merriam, Kansas where she met and married the love of her life, Mr. William Daniel Rock. She and William (Bill) raised 6 beautiful children together. She cherished each of her children deeply and delighted in watching her family grow to include 16 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren; a testament to the love she sowed.

Family wasn't just important to Bettie, it was everything. She poured her heart into creating a warm, welcoming home where generations gathered and memories were made. Bettie's and Bill's home was always the heartbeat of every holiday celebration and Sunday dinner, filled with expansive Christmas decorations, beautifully wrapped gifts under the tree and family meals where multiple generations gathered around her table to laugh, share stories, and bask in her warm presence. Bettie was both glamorous and grounded, she had a gift for making every person who entered her home feel welcomed and loved.

As a woman deeply rooted in her faith, Bettie professed her devotion to Christ at a young age within the Church of God in Christ. She maintained a steadfast commitment to Christian Tabernacle, initially under the pastorship of Bishop Emanuel Newton and later Pastor Keith Newton until her health began to fail.

Bettie will forever be remembered for her humor, quick wit and funny jokes as well as her love of crafting; especially knitting afghans and quilts that wrapped her family in comfort for generations. In addition, Bettie was also known for her sweet potato pies and famous chex mix during the holiday season.

Bettie departed this life on November 19, 2025, at 3:42 AM. Her last days were spent with family surrounding her with love, kisses and affirmations of our love for her.

Bettie leaves to cherish her memory her six children: Pablo (Andrea), Larry (Opal), Vincent, Pamela, Ingrid and Lloyd. Two sisters, Lena Sanders and Diane Venton. She leaves a devoted friend and sister of over 50 years, Mrs. Marzella McFarlin. She will also be greatly missed by her 16 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Bettie loved traveling with her husband and going on long road trips. She has now taken the ultimate trip and has reunited with those who went before her. We will always remember and love Mrs. Bettie Jean Rock, Mom, Grandma and Aunt Bettie. When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be, when we all see Jesus, we will sing and shout the victory! See you later, mom.