Betty Lou Benjamin Ackermann

Betty’s adventurous spirit and determination showed themselves early in life. As a young woman, she decided she was going to make her way to Houston. She told her mother she had a job waiting for her, although that wasn’t quite the truth, and boarded a train for Houston. Once she arrived, she was hired as a temporary employee by Robert Mosbacher. What began as a temporary job turned into an extraordinary 50-year career and became one of the defining chapters of her life.

For those 50 years, Betty was involved in politics and fundraising and became a trusted and familiar presence in Houston’s political community. She helped raise millions of dollars for Republican presidential candidates and was passionate about politics, always ready with her favorite reminder: “Let’s get the vote out!” She also devoted her time to helping M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Betty lived life with enthusiasm. She loved to travel and see the world, and she had an incredible ability to make friends wherever she went. She seemed to know everyone—and if she didn’t know you when she met you, chances were you wouldn’t remain strangers for long. She was a devoted Fox News viewer and enjoyed her daily martini.

Betty was married for 50 years and spent those years in the same home, creating a lifetime of memories. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her grandchildren held a very special place in her heart, and she cherished every one of them. She took great pride in their lives and accomplishments and loved nothing more than spending time with them and being part of their lives.

In her later years, Betty was fortunate to have several very special caregivers who became an important part of her life. We are especially grateful to Athena, Veronica, Olivia, and Caitlyn, along with Active Care Home Health, for the kindness, care, and companionship they gave Betty. They helped make her days brighter and provided comfort and support that meant so much to Betty and her family.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, R. H. “Herb” Ackermann, Jr.; her son-in-law, J. Doehring; and three brothers and six sisters.

She is survived by her daughter, Meg Ackermann Jeanes and her husband, Doug; her daughter, Marla Ackermann Doehring; four grandchildren, Meredyth Malone Johnson (Adam), Max Malone (Christy), Jamison Doehring, and Sarah Doehring (Bob); four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Betty leaves behind a remarkable legacy of family, friendship, laughter, determination, and a life lived on her own terms. From boarding a train to Houston on a promise that wasn’t quite true to turning a temporary job into a 50-year career, Betty had a way of making her own path—and making an impression on everyone she met. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Please join us to honor Betty’s memory at Brenner’s Steakhouse 10911 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX. on November 25th from 3:00-6:00 pm. No formal service, simply time together with family and friends.