Betty Lou Harbaugh

Betty Lou Callahan Harbaugh passed away on November 18, 2025, to be with the Lord. She was born on January 26, 1939, in Kansas City, Missouri, the only child of Louis and Mildred Callahan. 

Betty Lou graduated from William Chrisman High School in 1957. She went on to complete her undergraduate studies at the University of Central Missouri and later earned her master’s degree from Webster University, both in the field of Education. She was actively involved in school activities, excelled academically, and was an honor student. During college, Betty Lou was a proud and active member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority, where she held offices and forged lifelong friendships. 

Betty Lou devoted her life to education, spending the majority of her career teaching 4th grade at Bryant Elementary School. She served the Independence School District with dedication for thirty years, leaving a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the entire school community. Her passion for teaching and love for her students were evident in every lesson she gave. 

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Harold Lee Harbaugh, and her daughter, Tami Lou Eckhardt, who were always dear to her heart.

 Betty Lou was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her daughter and best friend, Traci Titus, and son-in-law Mike Titus. She also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: Lane Titus, Reid Titus, Max Titus, Chandler Eckhardt, Reagan Eckhardt and husband Josh Degoff, and Blaise Eckhardt, as well as her great-grandson, Beckham James Titus. 

A faithful member of First Baptist Church for over 50 years, Betty Lou served on numerous committees and taught Sunday School for more than 40 years, touching the lives of countless children and families. She was also an active member of the Junior Service League, holding offices and serving on many committees throughout her years of service. 

Betty Lou loved entertaining family and friends, and she was well-known for her fabulous summer poolside parties, which were always filled with laughter, joy, and her special touch of hospitality. She had a remarkable ability to brighten every room she entered, sharing warmth, kindness, and a heartfelt prayer with anyone in need. She was a true prayer warrior, always lifting others in faith and never hesitating to offer encouragement, love, or support. 

Her faith shone brightly throughout her life, guiding her in all she did and inspiring everyone around her. Her daughter and best friend, Traci Titus, was the heart of her world, and their bond leaves a cherished legacy that will continue to shine in the lives of all who knew her. And true to her warm and playful spirit, she could always be counted on for a smile or a laugh, often summed up perfectly by her favorite line: “I would like a Chardonnay, please, and some little plates and napkins!” 

Betty Lou Harbaugh leaves behind a legacy of love, grace, faith, and laughter. She will be remembered for her devotion to family, her dedication to her students, her unwavering faith, and her generous, joyful spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.