Betty White

Betty White, beloved companion, loyal guardian, and cherished member of the family, passed peacefully on January 23, 2026, cradled in the lap she loved most—her dad’s. She was 14 years old.

Born on November 18, 2011, in Murphysboro, Illinois, Betty entered Lance’s life on February 14, 2012—a Valentine’s Day gift that became a once-in-a-lifetime love. From that moment on, she devoted herself fully to her role as protector, comforter, entertainer, and constant presence through every high and low.

Betty adored her toys—her precious “babies”—and took her responsibilities seriously, especially when it came to shepherding everyone exactly where she believed they should be. This included her cat brothers and her little kitten sister, whom she watched over with great care. A natural babysitter and peacekeeper, Betty loved all animals, true to her namesake, with the notable exceptions of squirrels and the offending groundhogs who dared disturb her yard.

She had impeccable taste. Betty proudly wore her bandanas after spa days, strutting with confidence, and enjoyed her fair share of boujee treats—though her guilty pleasure was always Beggin’ Strips. She loved belly and neck scritches, long walks, and especially her time living in Washington, D.C., where she enjoyed strolling through Civil War battlefields and national memorials alongside her dad.

At home, Betty could often be found curled up watching Game of Thrones, earning her the affectionate title “Mother of Dragons.” She loved the snow, eagerly attempting to catch her dad’s famously bad snowball throws, and never missed an opportunity to greet him with hugs when he came home.

Above all, Betty was always there. Through joy and hardship, change and routine, she remained steadfast and loyal—right up to the very end. Her love was quiet, constant, and unconditional.

She was preceded in death by her canine friends Rory and Sig, and her feline companions General Grant and Jack Daniels.

She is survived by her feline buddies Simba, Roosevelt, Pippin, and Shadow Cat.

Betty White will be deeply missed and forever loved. She was a true blessing, and her pawprints will remain on the hearts of those who knew her.

Meredith Funeral Home-Eternal Friends, Carbondale has been entrusted with final arrangements.

Betty’s dad, Lance, would like to extend his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mark Tichacek and the entire Lakeside-Spears Veterinary Office for their kindness and compassion, as well as to Barry and Leann for being there at the very end, and to all who offered kind words, support, and love during this difficult time.