Betty Lou (Birdno) Hays, 89, of Batesville, AR, died on Thursday, April 23, 2026. Betty was born on May 6, 1936, in Lepanto, AR, to the late Charles Birdno and Vernie (Johnson) Lowrey. Betty loved her family. She especially cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She always sought to take an interest in their lives, whether that meant playing games with them or just providing a loving and nurturing presence. She will be dearly missed by everyone who was blessed to know and love her. Betty is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jim Hays; her brother, Charles Birdno; her daughters, Janet Laposky and Laura Laposky; and her niece, Dana Goodrum. She is survived by sons, Jackey Birdno (Judy) and Larry Laposky; her daughters, Paula Laposky (Mike), Anna Reitz (Mike), and Luann Norris (Eric); 7 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. Arrangements are entrusted to Willis Funeral Service of Batesville, AR. The family will host a Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1 PM, at Betty’s home in Batesville.
