Betty Lou Raters

Betty Lou Raters (nee Hemphill), of O'Fallon, MO, passed away Sunday, January 4, 2026 at the age of 92. Beloved wife of the late John "Bob" Raters; cherished daughter of the late Virgil and Lillian Hemphill; devoted mother of Linda (Ron Reeves) Raters and Steven (Julia) Raters; loving grandmother of Anthony (Jennifer) Raters and Mathew (Vlad) Raters; treasured great- grandmother of Zachary Raters, Zoey Raters, and Henry Raters; dear sister of the late Dean Hemphill. Betty also left behind several loved nephews and nieces; and many wonderful friends.

Betty was born and raised in Oakdale, IL in her early childhood and later moved to Jennings, MO where she graduated from Jennings High School as Valedictorian. From a young age she loved math and numbers, a passion that later led to her career in finance where she worked for Midwest Acceptance Corp. in St. Louis for over 45 years.

She was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan and as a young girl she faithfully listened to the ballgames on the radio. Her favorite Cardinal was always Stan Musial. She also enjoyed crocheting blankets and baby hats for the newborn babies at Barnes St. Peters Hospital for a number of years. Other hobbies included ceramics, jigsaw puzzles, classic television shows and staying on top of the finances.

Betty met her husband, John, at Casa Loma Ballroom and the two were married on March 13, 1953. During their many years together they lived in Missouri, Texas and Florida before settling in O’Fallon, MO. No matter where they lived, Betty was always very involved in her Church and community. She served on several committees and women’s groups within the Church over the years.

She was a selfless, generous and very loving person who made many lifelong friends through the years and always made it a point to keep in touch. She loved her family and friends unconditionally. Betty was dearly loved and will be greatly missed, although we are comforted she is in God’s hands.

Memorials may be made in Betty's name to St. Jude Children's Hospital.