Betty E. Modde

It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, wife, nana, and friend, Betty Elizabeth Modde, who passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, surrounded by her devoted husband and loving family.

Born on October 12, 1950, in Eloy, Arizona, Betty was the daughter of the late Elmer and Helen Vaughn. She was also preceded in death by her beloved brother Dion Vaughn, and is survived by her three children, as well as her sister Mildred Farris and brother Edward Vaughn.

Betty’s life was grounded in her faith in Christ, which guided her with quiet strength, grace, and compassion. Her faith was the foundation of her love for others and the joy she brought into the world.

She was the devoted mother of Brian De Lay, Chloe Moore, and Michael De Lay, and the cherished Nana of thirteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She shared a life of deep love and partnership with her husband, Terry Modde, who stood faithfully by her side with unwavering support.

From a young age, Betty's life was filled with music. She had a beautiful singing voice and a natural talent for the piano, which she played by ear. She was the pianist in her church during her youth and carried her love for music into adulthood, performing in community theater and singing in choirs throughout her life.

Betty was also a gifted photographer with an artist's eye. As a young mother, she channeled her creativity into photographing weddings, community events, and more — eventually working as a photojournalist for her town’s local newspaper. Her passion for photography later blossomed into a business when she co-founded Schilb's Images in Sedalia, Missouri.

A true entrepreneur at heart, Betty continued to build a remarkable legacy in her community. After her children were grown, she opened Jack & Jill’s, a children’s specialty clothing store, followed by Consigning Women, a women’s consignment boutique. Later in life, she and Terry became the proud owners of State Fair Floral, a beloved local flower shop. Betty’s creativity truly flourished there as she crafted beautiful floral arrangements with heart, skill, and a deep love for bringing beauty into others' lives.

Betty will be remembered as a strong, compassionate, and endlessly creative woman. She was intelligent, graceful, determined, and full of life. She had a remarkable ability to create something beautiful in everything she touched — whether through music, photography, business, or the way she loved her family.

To us, she was more than a mother, wife, nana, and friend — she was our inspiration. She lived life with grit and grace, pursued every dream with passion, and found joy in the simplest moments. Her laughter, her wisdom, and her love will forever echo in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

In our hearts forever — until we meet again. We love you.

Visitation will begin at 9:00 am, Thursday, July 31, 2025 with a celebration of memory beginning at 10:00 am at Heckart Funeral Home, Sedalia, MO.

Memorial contributions may be made to charity of choice in care of the funeral home.