Betty Bowser 1929-2026

Betty Jo Bowser, 96, Olathe, formerly of Holton, died Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, at Healthcare Resort of Olathe.

She was born Dec. 17, 1929, in Sioux Falls, S.D., the daughter of Rev. Newton L. and Alene Elizabeth Godfrey Haney. She moved to Jackson County in 2003 and had previously lived in Kansas City for 55 years.

Mrs. Bowser retired after 20 years with Southwestern Bell Telephone Company as secretary. She was also secretary for First Baptist Church in Holton for many years.

She was a member of First Baptist Church and Holton Lions Club and a past president of American Business Women of Kansas City. She was a former member of Alpha Lions Club and Worthy Matron for JCHS Hoyt Chapter OES 189.

She married Harlan E. Bowser Sr. on April 13, 1952, in Independence, Mo. He died Oct. 4, 2013.

Survivors include a daughter, Roxanna Day and husband Gregory, Overland Park; a son, Harlan E. Bowser Jr. and wife Karen, Kansas City, Mo.; four grandchildren, Breanna L. Copple and husband Roger, Kayla C. Cacy and husband Nick, Aaron R. Day and Mariah K. Bowser; four great-grandchildren; and a brother, Donald R. Haney.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Newton and Alene Haney; a sister, Alene Totten; and a brother, Newton L. Haney Jr.

Private family graveside services will be held at Holton Cemetery.

Cards of condolence may be sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.