In Loving Memory of My Mother, Bet Rice Ainsworth Moran

October 23, 2025

My mother, Bet Rice Moran, age 86, was born in Konawa, Oklahoma in 1938 and passed away peacefully surrounded by those who loved her most.

To me, she was more than an educator, wife, and leader—she was the heart of our family and the steady, compassionate presence that shaped so many lives.

Mom’s story began at Southwestern Bible College, where her love for ministry and music took root. She preached, sang, and played accordion with a joy that reflected her deep faith.

It was there that her lifelong journey of service and purpose truly began. She married my father, Dean Ainsworth, and together they raised two children, my brother Cliff Ainsworth and me (D.A. Ruby).

Our home was always filled with fun, laughter, and learning. The years that meant the most for Mom were the years spent working alongside my dad at Weskan Schools in Weskan Kansas. They were an unbreakable team that educated many fine students.  

Education was Mom’s life’s calling. From teaching in public schools to shaping higher education, she poured her heart into helping students discover who they were meant to be. She was a true pioneer in student advocacy and career exploration, always believing that every young person deserved the chance to find their path.

Her career reached remarkable heights as she served as Provost of Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) and Dean of the Sayre Campus. Yet even in those roles, she remained humble—her greatest joy was always in watching others grow and succeed.

After my father’s passing, Mom married Bill Moran and lived in Scottsdale, AZ through her later years.  

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mom’s proudest role was that of mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She is survived by her husband Bill Moran, son Cliff Ainsworth and granddaughter Mariah, and by her daughter D.A. Ruby and children J.D. Ruby, Micah Lovejoy, and Jake Ruby. She was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Kase, Kolbi, and Killian. In addition to the many students she advocated for, she loved and nurtured her nieces and nephews.

To me, my mother’s greatest legacy isn’t found in titles or achievements, but in the countless people she inspired along the way—with her faith, her wisdom, and her gentle strength. She taught us that life is best lived with kindness, purpose, and grace. And that’s exactly how she lived hers.

Fly high with angels mom.