Betty Jean (Bourbonia) Davis

Betty Jean (Bourbonia) Davis, 92, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed on October 17, 2023, in her beloved home while surrounded by her entire family.

Betty embodied the best of an almost bygone generation, cherishing being a mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was exceedingly gracious and always elegant and was described by many as the person they most admired and hoped to emulate.

Betty was born on March 12, 1931 in Fort Bayard, New Mexico and was raised in Rincon and Hatch, New Mexico, where her heart always remained. As an only child, her bond with her parents, John and Ora Bourbonia, was profound, and she held her family's long and storied New Mexico heritage close to her heart. Betty's academic prowess shone through as she earned valedictorian honors at Hatch High and graduated with distinction from the University of New Mexico. During her time in college, she fostered life-long friendships as a member of the Alpha Chi Omega Sorority. Betty fondly remembered representing New Mexico as the El Paso Sun Carnival Princess and Homecoming Princess at UNM. In 1953 she married UNM classmate and football star Roger S. Cox, longtime realtor and developer. Later in life, Betty became a successful businesswoman, owning and managing her own company, BJD Realty.

Betty's true legacy goes beyond her personal achievements; it's woven into the fabric of the many organizations to which she dedicated her life. She loved the International Order of Rainbow for Girls and was honored to serve as Grand Worthy Advisor in 1950-51. She remained involved as a member of Rainbow's State Executive Committee, guiding and mentoring countless young women. She was an early member of the Los Amapolas Garden Club and a patron of many organizations including the NM Symphony Orchestra, UNM's Hodgin Hall project revitalization committee, the Alpha Chi Omega House building committee, Bosque School, the Junior League of Albuquerque, Adah Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, and many others. She expressed her love of country through active participation in many Republican causes and organizations.

In addition to her numerous accomplishments and roles, Betty's devout Christian faith was the guiding light of her life, illuminating her path with love, compassion, and unwavering strength. Her faith was not just a belief but a testament to the kindness and generosity she extended to everyone she encountered.

Betty is survived by her loving daughters, Janice (Brian) Anderson and Elizabeth Ora Cox. She was a cherished grandmother to John Bourbonia Cummins, Thomas Bourbonia Cummins, and James Anderson; and a doting great-grandmother to Graham Duncan, Lauren Duncan, and Grace Bourbonia Cummins. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ora Bourbonia; and her granddaughter, Charlotte Plagge.

A funeral service to celebrate Betty's life will be held at St. John's United Methodist Church, on Saturday, October 28th at 11:00AM with internment and reception to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to the USO. Betty's legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.