Betty Zane Rider

Betty Zane Rider, 94, of Sebree, passed away at home under the care of St. Anthony’s Hospice on April 20, 2025.

Betty was born in Sebree on September 23, 1930 to the late Edward and Lessie (Hanley) Liggett.

A cherished and faithful pillar of the Sebree community, Betty wore many hats throughout her life as a licensed funeral director, skilled income tax preparer, and a committed EMT who proudly served on the local fire department, supplying anything needed to firemen on duty. She played a vital role in the town’s Independence Day celebration at Sebree Springs Park with the Woodmen of the World. Betty was also a proud and active member of the Women’s Auxiliary and the Fraternal Organization, where she served as secretary.

A foundational and faithful member of Sebree Baptist Church, Betty served in countless capacities throughout the years. She played the organ and piano for over 80 years, gracing the sanctuary with music during services and played for the Sebree Ministerial Association Easter sunrise service for 80 years. She sang in the choir, helped with AWANA and Vacation Bible School, and was a devoted member of her Sunday School class. Alongside her beloved husband Kenneth, she once led the church youth group, even taking them to Louisville to witness the ministry of Billy Graham.

Her love of family was one of her greatest joys. She never missed an opportunity to brag about her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In her spare time, she found joy in sewing, fishing, canning, painting ceramics, cooking, basket weaving, camping, gardening, music, and even a competitive game of corn hole.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth Rider and brother EW Red Liggett, Jr.

Survivors include her daughter Sherri Hargis (Wayne) of Henderson; son Keith Rider (Chele) of Sebree; sister Anna Hernandez; five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, several great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Services will be 2:00 PM Saturday April 26, 2025 at Sebree First Baptist Church with Christi Henderson, Pastor Dylan Zahn and Bro. Bob Hardison officiating. Burial will follow in Springdale Cemetery.

Visitation will be Friday 5-8 PM at Sebree First Baptist Church and Saturday noon until service time at the church.

Pallbearers will be Wayne Hargis, Adam Hargis, Ryder Hargis, Timmy Qualls, Zane Rider, Jason Langston, Brad Jones and Tony Hernandez. Aleksandr Rider will be an honorary pallbearer.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to St. Anthony’s Hospice.

Tomblinson Funeral Home Sebree Chapel is handling arrangements.