Bette Davis Lukert, 98, of Sabetha, Kansas, passed away peacefully Friday, September 25, 2026, at the Apostolic Christian Home, surrounded by her children.

Bette was born April 23, 1928, in St. Joseph, Missouri, to Albert and Ferne (Syster) Davis. She grew up on a dairy farm east of Hiawatha with her brother, Bob, and graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1946.

She attended the University of Kansas, where she majored in occupational therapy and met John Lukert Jr., of Sabetha. They married in 1950 and shared 72 years together.

Following their marriage, the couple lived in Alexandria, Virginia, where Bette worked at the Pentagon, arranging military travel. John's career as a geologist with Cities Service Oil Company took the family to several states, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas and Oklahoma. Together, they raised three children.

Bette enjoyed sewing, cooking, playing bridge and gardening, which she affectionately called "playing in the dirt." Wherever the family lived, she created a welcoming home and became involved in the local church and community.

After retiring to Sabetha, Bette and John built a home on the Lukert family property. She was active in PEO and United Methodist Women. The couple enjoyed traveling with friends and family, while Bette especially treasured hosting Fourth of July and Christmas gatherings.

Survivors include her three children, Mark (Carolyn) Lukert, Elizabeth (Scott) Thompson and Mary (Rick) Adams; two sisters-in-law, Barbara Lukert and Evelyn Davis; a nephew, Greg (Diane) Davis; and a niece, Kim (Gary) Neibling. She is also survived by five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday afternoon, October 24, at 2:00, at Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha. Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 2:00, prior to the service at the mortuary.

Condolences may be shared online at www.popkessmortuaries.com.