Elizabeth “Betty” Marie Calcagni Searle, 78, passed away on September 10, 2025, at Ashley Manor Care Center in Boonville, MO. She was born on January 30, 1947, in Providence, RI, to Frank J. and Eugenia (Robison) Calcagni.

Betty graduated from Cranston High School East in 1964. She later attended Emporia State University, Pratt Community College, and earned a degree in communication and psychology from Ottawa State University in 1990.

On July 22, 1967, she married William “Bill” Searle, the love of her life. They had one daughter, Patricia, and through Patricia’s marriage to Brian, Betty gained a son. Above all, Betty’s greatest joy was being a Grammy to her beloved granddaughter, Rachel.

A lifelong advocate for others, Betty began her volunteer service early, making bandages for soldiers during the Korean War. She went on to serve as the Volunteer Services Director at Osawatomie State Hospital in Kansas, where she introduced innovative therapies, including pet and "hug" therapy, to support individuals with mental health challenges. Betty was also active in community organizations, serving on the board of the Foster Grandparent Program and dedicating many years as a Girl Scout and Campfire Girl leader.

In 2004, Betty moved to Boonville to be closer to her family. She immediately became an integral part of the Sts. Peter and Paul School community, volunteering there for 10 years. Known affectionately by many students as the “lunch lady,” she took lunch tickets, drove kids to band practice, and opened her home to students as a place to relax, snack, and get help with their homework. Betty became a “Grammy” to many, including Caitlyn Spoonemore LaRoe, Corielle Spoonemore Dilse, Hailey and Hillary James, Gavin, Dalton, Addison, and Ava Johnson, and Laurel, Ben, Bridgette, and Landon Lutz.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, her parents Frank and Eugenia, and her nephew John F. Calcagni. She is survived by her daughter, Patricia; son-in-law, Brian; granddaughter, Rachel; her brother, John A. Calcagni (Florida) and his wife, Barbara; sisters-in-law Jean Govero and Pearl Suzann Nazworth; nieces Denise Nazworth Hamby, Lynn Nazworth Sherrill, and Melissa Govero; as well as her beloved “families by heart” – the Cardin Family, the Johnson Family, the Erin & Steve Lyon Family, the Paulsen Family, and the Schulz Family.

Betty’s legacy is one of unwavering love, selfless service, and a deep commitment to others. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, September 13, at 11:00 AM, with a visitation on Friday, September 12, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, and the Rosary at 4:30 PM. Both services will take place at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 322 7th Street, Boonville, MO. Msgr. Marion Makarewicz will preside, assisted by Deacon Dave Miller.

Memorial donations may be made to Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Boonville, MO.