Betty Ruth Kupperschmidt's Obituary
Dr. Betty Ruth Kupperschmidt entered this life on November 13, 1939, in Princeton, IN. to the late Preston and Ruth Martin.
Betty is preceded in death by her parents Preston and Ruth Martin, husband Gene, sister Patricia Boren, and brothers, Larry Martin, and Tony Martin. Betty is survived by her younger sister, Debrah Martin, son Mark and daughter-in-law Tammy.
Betty affectionately referred to her son, Mark, as her "Favorite son." When he was little, he said, "Mom, I'm your only son!" She replied, "Yes, but you could be 'My Least Favorite son,' so which would you prefer?" He agreed to be her "Favorite son".
Dr. Kupperschmidt holds a Master's degree in nursing and a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration. She has held a variety of leadership roles, including Clinical Director at Tulsa Regional Medical Center, Program Director at the University of Oklahoma - Tulsa, and the Head of two Baccalaureate Programs. She has served on the Board of Directors for SouthCrest Hospital and served as the President of the Oklahoma Nurses Association.
Betty served over 50 years as a practicing nurse and nursing professor at Pensacola Christian College, Arkansas Tech University, Oral Roberts University, Langston University, and the University of Oklahoma. Betty's passion was teaching the theory and clinical content of the Administration Pathway. A request from local nurse executives for help with leading and managing Generation X staff nurses led her to develop expertise in this area which is now recognized at state, national, and international levels.
Betty left the higher paying field of Nursing Management to make a difference in future generations of nursing, because God laid it on her heart. A student wrote this glowing review about "Dr. K":
"Outstanding professor. Passionate about her profession and cares deeply about her students! She has an outstanding knowledge base and is well versed with current literature. It was an honor to be taught by such a great individual. She is one of the most inspirational people I have met...."
What’s your fondest memory of Betty?
What’s a lesson you learned from Betty?
Share a story where Betty's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Betty you’ll never forget.
How did Betty make you smile?