12/16/1932-2/14/2026
It is with profound sadness and deep love that we announce the passing of Bettye Ruth Jones Ficken — a treasured mother, devoted wife, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, and a loyal friend to many. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her beloved family, just as she lived — wrapped in love.
Born on December 16, 1932, to Jerry McKinley Jones and Hettie Cox Jones, Bettye Ruth was the eighth of eleven children and the last surviving member of her immediate family. Raised on a family farm, she learned early the value of hard work, responsibility, and caring for what you love. Each child had daily chores, and it was there that her lifelong love of gardening took root. She truly had a “green thumb,” with a rare gift for nurturing plants, trees, shrubs, and flowers back to life — much like the way she nurtured the people around her.
After graduating from Grundy County High School, she moved to Chattanooga, where she met and married the love of her life, Kenneth L. Ficken, Sr. Together they built a beautiful life and raised four children: Trudy, John (Debbie), Robin (Larry), and Ken Jr. Their marriage was a testament to partnership, devotion, and shared adventure.
Bettye Ruth was the heart of her family. She was loving, caring, supportive, giving, and unwaveringly dependable. Even at 93, she remained full of life — vibrant, stylish, graceful, and truly beautiful inside and out. She had a way of lighting up every room she entered. A natural conversationalist with a grand sense of humor, she welcomed people from all walks of life into her home and her heart. Most fondly and affectionately, she was known as “the boss lady” — a title she carried with charm and confidence.
She was active in the Republican Women of Chattanooga, her neighborhood garden club, her church, and her children’s schools. Once their children were grown, Bettye Ruth and Kenneth embraced travel, exploring the world together, boating on Lake Chickamauga, and continuing the gardening that brought her so much joy.
In recent years, one of her greatest blessings was the daily time she spent with her great-granddaughter, Sara Frances. Their bond was extraordinarily special — filled with laughter, tenderness, and shared moments that will forever be cherished. Throughout her life, she remained not only a loving mother but also a close and loyal friend to her daughters, a relationship marked by deep affection, daily connection, and enduring closeness.
Losing her has left an immeasurable void in our lives. Yet we are comforted by the countless memories she gave us, the love she poured into every generation, and the faith that assures us we will see her again.
She will be laid to rest alongside her late husband at Chattanooga National Cemetery. There will be no visitation, and a celebration of her remarkable life will be held at a future date.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Hearth Hospice of Chattanooga and Gooden’s Compassionate Care and the tireless Ms. Brenda for her loving, and expert care. A special thank you to Benita and Dainy, whose devoted support in her final months became a treasured friendship.
Ninety-three years could never be enough for a woman so full of life and light. Her legacy of love, strength, laughter, and grace will live on in all of us.
Arrangements entrusted to Cremation Center of Chattanooga 1345 Hickory Valley Rd. Chattanooga, TN, 37421. 423.531.3975