FAYETTEVILLE — Betty Lou Banks,

99, of Fayetteville, passed away July 18, 2020 in Fayetteville. She was born Nov. 7, 1920, in Rogers, Ark., to Guy C. and Nellie Jones Banks.

She was preceded in death by her parents, nephew John Lee Banks and brother John C. Banks of New Mexico.

Betty Lou attended school in Siloam Springs and graduated from Morrow High School as valedictorian. She later attended Fayetteville Business College and the University of Arkansas.

Betty Lou worked for Boston Store for 13 years, leaving there to work for Silverman’s. She started her collection office, Banks Creditors Service, on Oct. 3, 1953. She joined the Prudential Insurance Company full-time in March 1959 (the first female agent hired in the southwestern home office).

Betty Lou was the first female in that office to receive her chartered life underwriter designation. She loved working with people and her number one hobby was working.

Betty Lou loved the Lord and wanted everyone else to know Him in a personal way. She was a Presbyterian.

She is survived by niece Vicki Shannon of Farmington; several great-nieces; great-nephews; and adopted sister Jeannean Arquette. Betty Lou will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, July 23, 2020, at Beard’s Chapel.

Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Friday, July 24, 2020, at Farmington Cemetery with Pastor Dee Harper officiating under the direction of Beard’s Chapel. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com .