Wendy Bethany

On Sunday, October 2, 2022, Wendy Le Nay Bethany passed away suddenly at the age of sixty two. She was born to Jackie Lee and Carol Welch in Fort Knox, Kentucky on January 16, 1960. She is survived by James, her loving husband of 41 years who will miss her greatly, her daughter Baylie DeJean and son-in-law Brad DeJean of Dallas, her grandkids Bridge and Brynley, her son Blake and daughter-in-law Tyra from Houston, her mother Carol Welch of Somerville, her brother Ty Welch and his wife Lorena of Oak Harbor, Washington, her brother Wes Welch of Seguin and his wife Shelly and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

Wendy graduated from Spring High School and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Sam Houston State University. She taught for more than twenty years in the Houston area and retired from Summer Creek High School in the Humble School District where she taught ESL and was recognized there as teacher of the year. Wendy loved helping students from other countries learn to speak English. She worked with Student Council, and served as senior class sponsor. She enjoyed planning Homecoming and Prom events. She also coached basketball and track, and attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Wendy has always served faithfully in her local church. She loved going on mission trips and traveled twice to Panama and for many years to different locations in Mexico. She took great pride in serving as the Women’s Ministry Director at Champion Fellowship in Brenham.

Wendy and James moved to the Burton area in 2017 and began living their dream of being in the country. They quickly became involved in the local community where Wendy was currently serving on the Heritage Society Committee, the Washington County Historical Commission, and helping to coordinate numerous annual events including the Burton Cotton Gin Festival, Shrimp Boil fundraising event, Ranger Days, community Trunk or Treat, Big Star Texas Night, and even “Lovey Camp” each summer for her precious grandkids. She and James were involved in so many things together and loved serving in their church and community. We will all miss her so much!

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Champion Fellowship’s Mission Ministry. Wendy was passionate about Restoration Ministry in Brazil. To donate, visit championfellowship.org/give and select General Fund from the drop down menu and indicate Missions Fund in honor of Wendy Bethany in the notes section.