Betty Cate Owen

Betty Cate Owen, a beloved figure and an inspiring woman, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at the age of 89, in Waco, Texas. Born on October 25, 1935, in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Betty was a vibrant spirit who lived her life with a bubbly personality that touched everyone she met. She never met a stranger, always greeted others with her radiant smile, and had a wonderful knack for sweet-talking her husband, Frank, out of the occasional misstep he might have made.

A proud graduate of Gatlinburg High School, Betty demonstrated her determination and competitive nature by playing as a guard on the school’s basketball team, exhibiting exceptional skill despite her petite stature of 5'2". After graduating, she embarked on a remarkable journey that saw her become one of the first female truckers long before the era of trucking schools; a path she embraced with pride and enthusiasm. With her husband's guidance, Frank taught her how to drive the 18-wheeler, paving the way for many women to follow in her footsteps in the trucking industry.

Betty's career was not just limited to trucking; she also demonstrated her exceptional talents in the professional world as the owner and operator of a successful trucking company alongside her husband. Additionally, her dedication to the community was evident through her work as a dispatcher for a light and power company in Greenville, Tennessee. Her multifaceted career reflected her remarkable ability to balance both professional commitments while nurturing the warmth of her household, making her a wonderful wife and mother.

Family and home were treasures that Betty held dear. She is survived by her beloved husband of 43 years, Frank, and her cherished daughter, Cindy Cate Morgan, along with son-in-law Michael Lee Morgan. Their lives have been enriched by her unwavering love and support, which has left an indelible mark on their hearts.

A passionate adventurer at heart, Betty loved to travel and proudly visited every state in the country. She had a flair for cooking that brought her family together around the dinner table, showcasing her love through delicious meals. In her downtime, she found joy in challenging herself with word searches, a testament to her sharp wit and love for learning.

Above all, Betty embraced life with an unwavering affection for the beautiful mountains of Tennessee, where her roots lay. Her legacy is one of a vibrant, adventurous woman who epitomized resilience and kindness, leaving behind cherished memories for all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will forever be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and infectious spirit, reminding us all of the beauty this life has to offer.