Heckemeyer honored as Women’s Democrat Clubs Woman of Year

Betty Heckemeyer of Sikeston smiles as she holds a bouquet of flowers after being recognized as the Women’s Democrat Clubs Woman of the Year. (Photo provided)

SIKESTON — A Sikeston woman was recently honored with the Women’s Democrat Clubs Woman of the Year Award.

The Missouri Federation of Women’s Democrat Clubs presented Betty Heckemeyer, lifelong Sikeston resident form Scott County, with the award during their 92nd annual convention June 15 in Jefferson City, Missouri. The award recognizes Democratic activism and tireless volunteering to promote Democrat candidates for public office.

Heckemeyer started her life in politics in 1964 when her husband of 60 years, Tony Heckemeyer, ran for the House of Representatives.

“I am proud to have made a difference,” Heckemeyer said. “Volunteering in politics has a positive impact, like President Biden’s recent infrastructure bill, which is providing long-needed funded for repairing our crumbling roads and bridges as well as support for broadband access in our rural areas so our farmers can better compete with market access.”

Heckemeyer and her husband have five children and five grandchildren. Their oldest child, Joe Heckemeyer, was also elected to the House of Representatives.

Heckemeyer volunteers with the Women of St. Francis Xavier and Altar Sodality as well as Spread Hope Now. The Heckemeyers farm land that has been in their family for numerous generations.

“There are times when the partisan polices is disheartening, such as when the Republicans in Congress refused to pass the boarder security bill to secure our borders,” Heckemeyer said. “When Democrats and Republicans work together, we all benefit.