Betty Zollicoffer

Jo Betty Kyles-Zollicoffer, lovingly known as Nanny or Bessie, was born on August 31, 1942, in Sallis, Mississippi, the eldest of twelve children. From the very beginning, she carried the heart, strength, and responsibility of a true matriarch.

In 1965, Jo Betty married Willie Zollicoffer, and shortly after, the couple moved to Omaha, Nebraska. In 1967, she was widowed far too soon. With immense courage and unwavering love, she took on the responsibility of raising five of her younger siblings along with her three children— all within the walls of a modest three-bedroom home. Despite limited space and resources, Jo Betty ensured that no one ever went without, and no one ever went hungry. Providing for others was not just something she did; it was who she was.

Throughout her life, Jo Betty was a devoted caregiver—not only to children, but also to elderly individuals who depended on her gentle, compassionate nature. She provided support, comfort, and care to many families in the community, always offering her time and her heart.

She was deeply protective of those she loved, constantly worrying and watching over her family with fierce devotion.

Jo Betty was a faithful woman of God. She was a longtime member of Paradise Missionary Baptist Church, where she served as Head Mother, guiding others with wisdom and grace. Later in life, she reaffirmed her faith through baptism at New Hope Apostolic Temple.

Known as the rock of her family, Jo Betty was the matriarch—the one who held everyone together, who gave strength when it was needed most, and who led with love, sacrifice, and an unshakeable spirit.

She leaves behind a legacy of devotion, resilience, and boundless care, forever cherished by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. She will be missed by so many.

Bessie was preceded in death by Parents, Janeva Kyles and Lee Jasper Kyles; husband Willie Zollicoffer; sisters Lucille Kyles, Lee J Kyles, Gloria Kyles, Birdia Kyles, Emma J Kyles; grandson Joshua

She leaves to cherish her memory; children James E Kyles, Janette Kyles, Angela Zollicoffer, Alexis Zollicoffer; grandchildren, Robert Kyles, Shay Kyles, Terence Zollicoffer, Randi Zollicoffer; great grandchildren, TreVon Kyles, Niya Kyles, Telecia Richard, Sydney Collie, Kendrick Harris, Mya Kyles, Kayden Zollicoffer, Kiya Zollicoffer, Kendall Barnes, Karmello Barnes; Siblings, Alberta Spivey (Charles),James Kyles (Helen), Gladger Kyles, Ike Kyles (Betty), Nita Ann Kyles, Willa Mae Kyles, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends