Bettie Jean Raines, 85, of Burlington, died Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington. Born July 19, 1939, in Burlington, she was the daughter of Terry and Helen Bray Raines.
Bettie was the family genealogist and historian. She loved volunteering at the library and spending her time reading. She was a part of a number of organizations including the Des Moines County Genealogical Society, Woodmen of the World, Beta Sigma Phi, Civic Music, Des Moines County Historical Society, Old Fort Genealogical Society, Friends of the Depot, Des Moines County Humane Society, and Friends of the Public Library. She was very independent and enjoyed taking bus trips to see various areas across the U.S. She loved animals and had numerous throughout her life, including horses and her beloved cat.
Her family include her cousins, Gary Bray of Kahoka, Mo., David Bray of Burlington, and Diane Leonard of Kansas; and aunt, Charlotte Bray of Kansas.
Sadly, she was preceded in death by her parents, aunts and uncles.
The graveside committal Service for Bettie will be Monday, Jan. 27, 2 p.m. at Burlington Memorial Park Cemetery, 10993 115th Ave., Burlington. Pastor JudyAnn Morse will officiate the service.
A memorial has been established for St. Jude's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.
Prugh Funeral Service is in care of the arrangements.