Freeport-Betty J. Johnson, 82, of Freeport, died Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at home surrounded by her family, after a long struggle with cancer.
Betty was born at home on April 29, 1924, in Winslow, Illinois. She was the daughter of William and Eva (Rackow) Gore. She married Dale A. Johnson, of Freeport, on January 5, 1944. She graduated from Freeport High School in 1943. Worked at Crum & Foster Insurance Company, Structo, and most recently, Newell for over 30 years, retiring from there in 1986. Belonged to Newell 20 year club. Member of First United Methodist Church for over 50 years and was an active member of Wesley Circle. She devoted much time to volunteer work, Meals on Wheels, church usher, greeter, and Communion Steward.
Betty loved to travel, embroidery, crochet, bird watch, play euchre and was an avid collector of cardinals.
She is survived by her husband, Dale of Freeport; 3 children, Terry (Georgia) Johnson of Freeport, Kathie Johnson of Pecatonica and Kim Johnson of Rockford; 3 grandchildren, Erika (Patrick) Straka of Nashotah, Wisconsin, Brendan Johnson of Byron, and Thom Johnson of Freeport; 4 great grandchildren, Grant, Sean, Jane, and Anne Straka. She dearly loved and enjoyed her Great grandchildren and family.
She is also survived by 1 brother, Kenneth (Marless) Gore of Sartell, Minnesota; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Larry Weigel, the best euchre partners ever, and brother-in-law, George Johnson Jr. of Romeoville, Illinois; and numerous nieces and nephews; and many wonderful friends.
She was predeceased by her parents; three brothers-in-law, Don Johnson, Slim Ellsworth, and Bob Tobler, 3 sisters-in-law, Shirley Johnson Ellsworth, Juanita Johnson Tobler, and Nola Johnson.
Cremation rites have been accorded.
Memorial service will be Saturday, December 2, 2006 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church with Reverend Alka Lyall and Reverend Orrell Ruth officiating.
There will be a gathering for family and friends Saturday, December 2, 2006 from 10 a.m. until time of service at the church.
A memorial has been established in her name.
The family invites friends to extend condolences, share a memory, light a candle, or share a caring heart in her honor at www.walkermortuary.com.