Betty Joyce Kerbs Abel, 89, died March 5, 2015, at the Good Samaritan Center, Hutchinson. She was born November 12, 1925, in Otis, KS, to Leonard E. and Hannah (Brack) Kerbs.

She was a member of Otis United Methodist Church, and Eastern Star #104 receiving her Gold Certificate representing 50 years, and the Liberal Lyons Club. Betty and Walt were owners and operators of Abel Dirt Construction Company in Liberal for over 20 years.

On June 29, 1947, she married Walter Franklin Abel in Hutchinson. He died March 13, 2000.

Survivors include: a daughter, Ronda Priem and husband William of Hutchinson; and a grandson, William Priem and wife Dr. Rachel Warren-Priem of Dallas. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Helen "Tootsie" Pearson, and Vera Traylor, and brother, Buddy Kerbs.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 12, 2015, at Otis United Methodist Church, Otis, with Pastor Marilyn Christmore presiding. Burial will be in Otis United Methodist Cemetery, Otis. Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary, Hutchinson.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Betty Abel Memorial Fund for Animal Rescue, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 North Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.