Betty Alene Kinder

Betty Alene Kinder, 85, of Clarksville Arkansas, passed away peacefully on June 21st, 2025 with her daughter by her side.

Betty was born in Atkins, Arkansas to LD and Ruby Virden on Aug. 29th 1939. Growing up in Oak Grove, she developed a love for cooking, music and sewing. Betty was a true southern cook, finding joy and purpose in the kitchen. Known for her homemade biscuits and gravy, she made traditional meals delicious. Her love of food was contagious, bringing families and friends together around her table. Betty was a true artisan, finding joy and peace in the rhythm of a needle and thread. She spent countless hours in her sewing room, surrounded by vibrant fabrics and the promise of a new creation. Her quilts and hand embroidery project were tangible expressions of her warmth and dedication, each stitch a testament to her unique vision and skill. Betty was thrilled to teach Debbie and Megan her passion for quilting and sewing. She was so proud of the small home business they started and was always ready to offer advice and contribute to projects.

Betty discovered a lifelong calling for music at a young age. As a self taught musician, she spent countless hours perfecting her piano skills. She played for many churches while contributing to her husband’s ministry as a pastor for 65 years. She also played for gospel groups including, The Oak Grove Singers and The Spiritual 5.

Betty will be dearly missed and always remembered by her family and friends as a faithful christian. She is preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Rev. JC Kinder, twin daughters, Ramona & Rebecca Kinder, parents, LD & Ruby Virden, siblings, LD Virden, (Jr), Wilma Canady & Margaret Lou Jones.

She is survived by her daughter and son in love, Debbie & Billy Featherston, grandchildren,(her pride and joy), Megan Featherston & Bradley Featherston. Two special nieces, Becky Virden Swift & Joanne Canady Wheeler and numerous family & friends.

Visitation will be held at Russellville Family Funeral Home on June 24th from 5-7pm. A graveside service will take place at St. Joe Cemetery on June 25th at 10:00am. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Russellville Family Funeral. Please visit our website, www.russellvillefamilyfuneral.com, to share a memory with Betty's family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to New Blaine Freewill Baptist Church, ℅ Edith Martin, 385 Stapleton Ln, Subiaco AR 72865.