Doris "Betsy" Elizabeth McCollum Owens, age 83, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Services will be held at a later date in her hometown of Seven Springs, North Carolina. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Clinton Animal Shelter (C.A.R.E) in care of Vansant Mills Funeral Home.

Betsy was born on December 4, 1942, in Seven Springs, North Carolina, to William "Mac" McCollum and Louise Herring McCollum. She was affectionately known as "Toots" by her family in North Carolina, a nickname that reflected her warmth and spirit.

Betsy had a deep love for gardening and spent many years filling her yard with beautiful flowers and plants. She delighted in sharing this passion, teaching several of her grandchildren the art and joy of gardening. In her younger years, she was also an avid painter and artist, proudly displaying her artwork throughout her home.

In the 1980s, Betsy began showing and breeding Shetland Sheepdogs and later Pomeranians, eventually becoming a professional dog handler representing many breeds. She had clients from around the world, competed numerous times at the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, and earned great respect within the dog show community. Her love for dogs brought her countless friendships and meaningful conversations with everyone she met.

Above all else, Betsy's greatest love was her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, always ready to help any family member in need. She especially cherished watching her great-grandchildren play during Christmas and family gatherings. Her generosity and kindness knew no bounds.

Betsy was preceded in death by her parents, Mac and Louise McCollum; her beloved son, Chuck Owens; and her brother, Bill McCollum.

She is survived by her daughters, Debbie (Bill) Bach and Beverly (Kip) Marshall; her grandchildren, Sabrina (Tim) Harris, Jared (Natalie) Parlette, Brandon (Ellissa) Bach, Alexis (Chris) Kondrick, and Charles Marshall; and her great-grandchildren, Liam Hill, Mason Parlette, Mason Bailey, Madelyn Parlette, Jordan Luksis, Ellie Kondrick, and a great-grandchild expected in March 2026.

Obituary submitted by the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home in Clinton, MO.