Bettye Ann Evans Walker Kee was born to the late Clyde and Mary Frances Evans on September 19, 1938. Bettye grew up to become an accomplished musician and was passionate about the arts. She was a child prodigy at an early age performing with the Memphis Youth Symphony. She played the flute, harp, piano and violin.

She was an independent criminal court reporter for almost 60 years in Tennessee. She can still be seen on CNN from time to time with high profile cases. She was one of the last two living that worked on the Martin Luther King case in the 1960's. She has been an integral part of Memphis history that will live on. Bettye's career also expanded to Washington, DC where she worked as a transcriber for the Pentagon. Bettye thrived in the criminal court system and worked until last year, retiring at the age of 84.

She was a world traveler who enjoyed experiencing different cultures and cuisines across the continents. She also enjoyed interior decorating, gardening, and walks on the beach with her daughter, Deborah. More than traveling and hobbies, Bettye loved spending time with family and friends. She loved entertaining and was an impeccable hostess.

Bettye never met a stranger. Everyone that knew her loved her. She was always bright and sunny with a cheerful disposition. She was very elegant, loved fashion and had taste like no other. She died on April 8, 2024, and just like the eclipse, she is timeless and unforgettable.

Bettye is loved and will be truly missed by her daughter, Deborah Bruce-Nibi of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL; numerous loving stepchildren; special cousins Jan Rhiel (Gary) of Bethlehem, PA, Katelyn Rhiel-Greenzweig (Alex) of Philadelphia, PA, and Jennifer Rhiel of Bath, PA; and Wain Snyder of Memphis, TN. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Don Kee, parents, and brother, Don Evans.