Betty Lou Cardwell

With heavy hearts yet boundless gratitude, we announce the peaceful passing of Betty Lou Cardwell, our cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. On the morning of October 29, 2025, Betty slipped quietly from this world at the age of 87.

Born in 1938 to loving parents in Morgantown, Kentucky, Betty grew up with a hymn in her heart and kindness in her hands. She married the love of her life, Charles Henry Cardwell, in 1953, and together they built a home filled with laughter, love, and music. Betty was a devoted wife and a master in caretaking—tending not only to her family but to anyone lucky enough to cross her path.

Her home was the heart of the family and a refuge for all. She spent countless hours cooking homemade meals, filling bellies, and telling stories that made everyone feel seen and loved. The closet was always stocked with toys, the penny jar never empty, and the freezer always had orange creamsicles waiting for the next visit. Betty welcomed every stray cat that wandered her way and every person who needed comfort, treating both with the same quiet compassion.

Her care extended beyond her front door. Betty joined friends and family on trips that combined service and adventure—from helping after Hurricane Katrina to lending her nursing hands in El Salvador and traveling wherever she could bring a bit of joy and help to others. To many on the mission field, she was simply known as “Nurse Betty”.

She is survived by her son, Jeffery L. Cardwell, and his wife Cheryl; her adored grandchildren Marka, Larissa, Shanne, Zach, Sara, Brian, and Jeffery; and a beloved circle of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who will forever cherish her love, laughter, and stories. She is also survived by her brother, Reverend Ray Hampton, and a constellation of nieces, nephews, and friends who will carry her light forward.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles Henry Cardwell; her sons, Robert Carl Cardwell, and Ricky Ray Cardwell; and her parents.

Betty Lou Cardwell did not seek the spotlight—she simply loved fiercely, cared deeply, and lived fully. She faced hardship with humor, met challenges with courage, and never hesitated to speak her mind. The world is softer, sweeter, and a little less bright without her, but heaven has surely gained another saint. Rest in eternal peace, dear Mom, and Grandma. We will love you always.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 11 am to 1 pm at Flanner Buchanan-Floral Park. Funeral service will be Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 1 pm at Flanner Buchanan-Floral Park. Burial to follow at Floral Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the People Helping People Network in her memory, for the purpose of serving those in need at the Compassion Center’s soup kitchen in Indianapolis, where Betty’s brother, Reverend Ray Hampton, has volunteered for years.

Donation Link: Support the Compassion Center of Indy