Longtime Farmington Daycare Provider Betty 'Colleen' Minton Dies at 91

Minton spent over 20 years caring for children in her home and was an active member of the local Elks Lodge.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:09am

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An abstract, dreamlike image of soft, blurred shapes and pools of warm light, evoking the cozy, nurturing atmosphere of a home daycare.The passing of beloved Farmington daycare provider Betty 'Colleen' Minton marks the end of an era of small-town community and compassionate childcare.Farmington Today

Betty 'Colleen' Minton, a longtime daycare provider and active member of the Farmington, Missouri community, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026 at the age of 91. Minton is survived by her three children, nine grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, as well as her sisters-in-law and extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, daughter, granddaughter, and several siblings.

Why it matters

Minton's passing marks the end of an era for Farmington's close-knit community, as she was known for her decades of compassionate childcare and involvement with the local Elks Lodge. Her life exemplified the values of family, service, and small-town living that have defined the region for generations.

The details

Over the course of more than 20 years, Minton provided daycare services in her home, touching the lives of countless local children and families with her kindness and nurturing spirit. In addition to her childcare work, she was a proud member of the Farmington Elks Lodge #1765 and found joy in activities like gardening and homemaking.

  • Minton passed away peacefully on March 26, 2026 at the age of 91.
  • A celebration of Colleen's life will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

The players

Betty 'Colleen' Minton

A longtime daycare provider and active member of the Farmington, Missouri community who passed away at the age of 91.

Cathy (Mike Kottrell) Johnson

Minton's daughter who lives in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Bob (Lisa) Minton

Minton's son who lives in Atlanta, Georgia.

Mandy (George) Blackmon

Minton's daughter who lives in Farmington, Missouri.

Patsy Lamb

Minton's sister-in-law who lives in St. Charles, Missouri.

June Lamb

Minton's sister-in-law who lives in Kentucky.

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What’s next

A celebration of Colleen's life will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel. Private inurnment will follow at Parkview Cemetery.

The takeaway

Minton's passing marks the end of an era in Farmington, as she was a beloved figure known for her decades of compassionate childcare and community involvement. Her life exemplified the values of family, service, and small-town living that have defined the region for generations.