Betty Jean Sonafrank, aka "Moose", 80, of Terre Haute, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026. Born Betty Jean Rowan in Tulare, California, she lived a life marked by resilience, warmth, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Betty began her career as a phlebotomist, a role that reflected her natural compassion and care for others. Her journey brought her from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, to Terre Haute, IN when she accepted a new position at a local facility. It was there—just steps away from the Wabash Cigar Store—that she met the love of her life, John Sonafrank, aka "Shadow", during her breaks to purchase cigarettes. The two would go on to marry and co-own the Wabash Cigar Store, building not only a business but a life rooted in community and connection.

She had a zest for life that was unmistakable. Betty loved traveling, tending to her garden, and bird watching, always finding joy in the simple beauty of the world around her. She was vivacious and spirited, stubborn when it counted, deeply compassionate, and a fiercely loyal friend.

Above all, Betty's greatest pride was her family. She stepped into the role of caregiver and mother when she gained custody of her granddaughter, Lacrisha VanWeelden (Clinton), at just six months old. From that moment on, she devoted herself fully, providing a home filled with strength, love, and guidance. Her impact in that role cannot be overstated—she was not only a grandmother, but a true parent and foundation.

Betty is survived by her son, Steven Francis and daughter-in-law Monica Francis; and her grandchildren, Lacrisha VanWeelden and husband Jeremy VanWeelden, Mackenzie Terry, Jordan Francis, Jonathan Francis, Holden Francis, Joey Francis, Michael Gorman, and Robert Clinton. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Sonafrank; and her children, Katherine Anderson, Karen Clinton, Michael Francis, and Bryan Francis, as well as grandson Steven Francis II.

A graveside service will be held at Calvary Cemetery on May 2 at 12:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at Bohannon's East from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. In honor of Betty's love for the Kentucky Derby, family and friends are invited to continue remembering her later that evening during the race at 6:57 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause Betty supported faithfully and held close to her heart. https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=9211220&fr_id=154020&pg=personal

Betty will be remembered for her strength, her fierce love, and the way she showed up—fully and unapologetically—for the people in her life. Her legacy lives on in the family she built and the lives she shaped.