Betty Oneita Gunn, 86, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2025 at Sagecrest Nursing Home in San Angelo, Texas. She was born on March 31, 1939, to Barnie and Evelyn Jones in Post, Texas. A woman of unwavering faith, boundless love, and steadfast dedication, Oneita spent her entire life within seven miles of where she was born, deeply rooted in the land and community that shaped her.
She graduated from Post High School in May 1957 and married Clarence Gunn on August 24, 1957. Together, they built a life on their farm in the Close City community, where Oneita proudly took on the role of Clarence's "go-getter"—hauling trailers, running errands, and doing whatever was needed to keep the farm thriving. She embraced the hard work of farm life with joy, finding fulfillment in the love of her family and the beauty of the land they cultivated.
Oneita's heart extended beyond her family as she devoted her time and energy to her community. She was an active member of the Garza County Home Demonstration Club, local 4-H clubs, and countless school activities supporting her children. A woman of deep faith, she was a dedicated member of First Baptist Church in Post, where she found great joy in serving others and worshiping with her church family.
She and Clarence shared a love for fishing trips, where they found peace and laughter together. Oneita also had a passion for travel, exploring new places and making cherished memories with her lifelong friend, Linda Runkles. She found immense joy in being present for her grandchildren, never missing a sporting event, band competition, stock show, gymnastics meet, or birthday celebration. Her love was a constant presence in their lives, offering encouragement, wisdom, and warmth.
Oneita believed in the power of simple joys—Tuesday night "42" domino games, Friday morning coffee gatherings at Garza County Trailblazers, and the warmth of a well-told story. She lived her life with a generous heart, a quick wit, and an unwavering devotion to family and friends.
She is survived by her daughter, Darlene Speck of San Angelo; son-in-law, Bobby Heckaman of Post; daughter-in-law, Melinda Gunn of Lubbock; and sister, Reta Fern Settlemire of San Angelo; a brother, Darrell Jones of Kerrville. She is also survived by eight grandchildren: Breann Grizzell (Jody) of Post, Dionn Rasco (Tobin) of Lubbock, Jessie Fett (Phillip) of San Angelo, Tatum Dorow (Andrew) of Cairo, Egypt, Allen Heckaman (Jessica) of San Angelo, Scott Speck (Victoria) of San Angelo, Garrett Gunn (Kyla) of Coahoma, and Brady Gunn (Emily) of Cypress, along with 19 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Barnie and Evelyn Jones; her husband, Clarence Gunn; her daughter, Nita Jo Heckaman; her son, Danny Gunn; and her son-in-law, Gary Speck.
Oneita leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and love that will continue to inspire those who knew her. She lived her life fully, with a servant's heart and an unshakable spirit, finding joy in the little things and always putting family first.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at The Crest and Sagecrest in San Angelo for their compassion and dedication in caring for "Betty" over the past three years.
Oneita's love, laughter, and wisdom will forever be carried in the hearts of those she touched. Though she has left this world, her spirit remains—a guiding light reminding us to cherish family, embrace every moment, and love without limits.
A visitation will be held on Friday, April 11, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Hudman Funeral Home in Post, Texas. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, April 12, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Post, Texas, followed by graveside services at Terrace Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Post, Garza County Trailblazers, or a memorial of your choice.