Betty Jo Mitchell Fletcher was born January 5^th 1939 to John and Edna Mitchell (deceased).  The Mitchell’s were long time residents of the Rehm Community where Betty’s dad farmed.  Betty was 1 of 7 children, 5 brothers and 1 sister.  Betty’s sister and 1 of her brothers live in Dalhart. 

Betty graduated from Dalhart High School in 1957.  She began work for Gooch’s Feed Mill in July that same year.  In 1958 she became a bookkeeper at the Dalhart Hardware store where she worked for a year and a half.  She was married to Alfred ‘Knot’ Fletcher in July 1959.  Upon moving to Hartley they built their home on the Ralph Fletcher farm in 1967.  Betty recalls moving into the new house on Thanksgiving Day; “Dinner was from an electric skillet as we did not have a stove or icebox when we moved but we made do with what we had”.  Betty helped Knot with his hay hauling business for about 20 years.

Knot and Betty have 3 children, 2 daughters and a son.  Danett lives in Amarillo and works at Anderson Merchandisers.  Dona Jo lives in Channing and works at Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch.  ‘Jimbo’ lives in Dalhart and has his own business, J-F Construction.  They also have 7 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.   They celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary July 17^th, 2009.

Betty helped start the Hartley Home Demonstration in the early 60’s and held many offices in the club.  She was a 4-H leader for the children while they were in school and followed all of the children in their sports and activities.  Knot and Betty are members of the Eagles Lodge in Dumas where Betty has served as a Trustee and also as a Treasurer.  Betty loves to quilt and is a volunteer quilter at the Dalhart Senior Citizens Center. 

Betty came to be involved in Open Arms Therapy when her nephew, Carl Bailey, and his wife shared their dream.  Betty wanted to be involved with this program because she saw what a benefit it would be for so many in this area.  With her many years of experience in bookkeeping and skills as trustee and treasurer she is an asset to the program and is currently holding the position of Secretary and Treasurer for the organization.  Betty has and continues to dedicate much time to the task of helping OAT in becoming incorporated, insured, and in acquiring non-profit 501c3 status.  Betty is also an active volunteer for OAT garage sales and fundraisers.   OAT is very thankful for all of the talents Betty brings to the team!