Betty Earl Cantley

Betty Earl Cantley, devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away July 10, 2016 at her home near Smiley. She was born on July 8, 1930 in Houston. 

Betty worked tirelessly by her husband, Kennon’s, side to build their poultry and cattle business. After her husband’s passing, she continued to run the ranch until her health no longer allowed it. 

Her greatest legacy was and will continue in providing a safe, productive, loving environment for the ladies of the Smiley Community Group Homes. She has been a “guardian angel” over the homes for the past 31 years. The first group home was built by Kennon and Betty along with Dr. Ken Gray of Austin in 1985. 

She loved to hunt in South Texas and especially “relished” in bringing in “The Big One” to show the boys. Her lawn mowing was her therapy, and if you saw her on the mower, you had better turn around and come back another time.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Morris Kennon Cantley; parents, David Granvil and Annie Lou (Lee) Caskey of Smiley; and brothers, Emmett Caskey of Smiley and Mert Caskey of Alvin. She is survived by her son, Kennon Cantley and wife Merilyn of Smiley; daughters, Karen High and husband Ace of Westhoff and Konnie Ann Cantley of Smiley; grandchildren, Renice Dozier and husband Nelson of Schertz and Rutledge High and wife Jillian of Robinson; great-grandchildren, Paisley and Mazie Dozier and Gabe and Tip High; nieces, nephews, as well as other loving family and many friends. 

A celebration of life will be held Thursday, July 14 from 4 – 6 p.m. at Betty’s home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Accolade Hospice, 222 W. Grand Ave., Yoakum, Texas 77995. The online guestbook may be signed at www.finchfuneralchapels.com.