Betty Jean Gehring, 81, of Brookings, South Dakota, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, surrounded by her family. A visitation will be held Sunday, October 4, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. Monday, October 5, at Eidsness Funeral Home in Brookings, South Dakota.

She was born February 8, 1945, in Parkston, South Dakota, to Ferdinand and Molly Bitterman. Betty lived in the Parkston area until moving to Brookings in 1971. She married Duane Gehring on June 13, 1965. Together they raised three children, Scott Gehring (Suzy), Glen Gehring (Jessica), and Jennifer Hinricher (Scott). Family was the center of Betty’s life. She loved following her children and grandchildren in sports and was always proud to be there cheering them on.

She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, puzzles, and especially playing cards with family and friends—often spending many late nights around the card table. Betty spent several years providing in-home daycare before working at Donut Barn and later finishing her career at the Fairfield Inn in Brookings.

Betty is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her siblings.