In loving memory of

Betty Leacox
December 8, 2011

Betty Lou (McCrea) Leacox was born on February 5, 1927 in Bedford, Iowa, the daughter of Claude James and Faye (Swearingen) McCrea. Betty entered into eternal peace on Thursday, December 8, 2011 at the Elm Heights Care Center in Shenandoah, Iowa.

Betty attended school in Shenandoah and graduated from Shenandoah High School. Following graduation she attended Creston Community College for one year. On June 15, 1946 she was united in marriage to John Edward Leacox in Shenandoah, Iowa. This union was blessed with the birth of three children; William, James and Janie

During her working years Betty was employed by the Chamber of Commerce as a secretary until the couple purchased Shenandoah Monument Company in 1962. She worked along side her husband until 1980, assisting with the daily duties of the lettering company. She was a loving wife, dedicated mother, and caring grandmother.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Shenandoah, a 50 plus member of PEO, Assistant Director of Southwest Iowa Theater Group and President of the Greater Shenandoah Historical Society. She enjoyed being part of the Sweet Adeline's and Bell Choir at church. Some of her hobbies included playing bridge, reading and doing crossword puzzles in ink. For over 60 years Betty cherished her Saturday coffee with her dear friends.

She was preceded in death of her parents; husband John Leacox; and brother Robert Claude McCrea.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children William R. Leacox of Stocton, CA, James G. Leacox and wife Karin of Overland Park, KS and Janie Leacox Casteel and husband Chris of Atlantic, IA; grandchildren Christin Casteel Blume and husband Chris of Cleveland, MS, Ms. Marcia Casteel of Council Bluffs, IA, John Leacox and Marc Leacox both of Overland Park, KS; other relatives and friends.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn her loss.

Tributes

Cris Coleman wrote on Oct 25, 2012:

"Will, I just learned of your mother's passing. I hope you and yours are well. But you will one day meet again in a much happier surrounding. You won't likely remember me, as we only met once in your Shenandoah home where I interviewed you for the local paper. That was a fun interview. I hope you find peace in all areas of your life. Best wishes."

Janet Danforth-Bacon wrote on Dec 20, 2011:

"I'm sorry for your loss. Betty was a great lady!"

Alan (Skip) Bayless wrote on Dec 14, 2011:

"I will always remember Betty and John from my active days associated and playing 3rd Sax with the Rhythmn Aires Orchestra, along with all the other Band Members. I took a fall from the scaffolding while putting new siding on Betty and John's remodeled residence. John made our Family stone following my father's accident in 1971. Betty was very kind, soft-spoken and likable person. "

J Nunnally wrote on Dec 13, 2011:

"I am sorry to learn about your family's sorrow. The death of a loved one is difficult. Let me share scripture that may help. Please, take a moment to read John 6:40, 44 and Ps. 36:9."

Steve Golden wrote on Dec 12, 2011:

"Dear bill janie , jim im sorry about losing your mom my fond memorie of her was when i walked by the momument company your mom would always speak to me and my sister and john was always teasing us kids! i just lost my mom donna ward-godlen jsut several months ago! im stuck home today i wont be able to atttend the funeral god bless you all and she will and your dad were always good to me god bless you guys and i will always remember her!Steve golden- bambi golden allen golden adn my mom donna golden"

Elaine Broermann wrote on Dec 11, 2011:

"Betty was such a great person and I really enjoyed her company. I always reminded her that her husband's band played at my high school senior prom in Tarkio, MO -- class of '66. She enjoyed hearing those kinds of things. She will be missed!"

Therese Sunderman wrote on Dec 11, 2011:

"I just loved Betty. She always made me feel welcome in the Leacox home. She was fun, classy, tolerant of us invading her home, and one sweet lady! Sorry for your loss~"

Cindy Johnson wrote on Dec 11, 2011:

"Karin and Jim, May God wrap his arms around you and comfort you in your grief. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Cindy"

Barb Padilla wrote on Dec 11, 2011:

"Jim and family... Really sorry to hear about your mom. The circle of life really sucks at times! Luckily memories last forever. Not able to make it down because of commitments here but sending strength and good vibes your way! Jim, next time your home call and we'll arrange a "class meeting"."

America wrote on Dec 11, 2011:

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Leacox family at this time. Our sincerest condolences to all. Gerry, Dewey, Rich, Michael, Ben, Jeff and Erin w/ America"

Almquist Family wrote on Dec 11, 2011:

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you."

Margaret (Margo) Cochrane wrote on Dec 10, 2011:

"To the Leacox family: Jim, Bill, Jaynie & families, My condolences to you Jim, and your siblings, of the passing of your mother, Betty. I last saw your mother upon visiting the Historical Museum in our hometown, and she was gracious & smiling along with her friends who volunteered there. God bless you, Margo Cochrane - Omaha,NE "

Judy (Reed) Ogden wrote on Dec 10, 2011:

"Bill, I was so sorry to hear of your mother's passing. I know that she and my mother were good friends for many years. Mom passed away earlier this year,and, even though she had lived a long and fulfilling life, it's a difficult thing. You are in my thoughts. Judy"

Ed May wrote on Dec 9, 2011:

"Dear Will, Very sorry to hear about your mother. I did not know she had been ill. Thinking of you and your family. Take care, Ed May"

Dianne Smith-Voltz wrote on Dec 9, 2011:

"Brian and I are very sorry to hear the loss of your mother. She was a great lady. You all are such wonderful people. Bless you all"

Joyce Supernaw wrote on Dec 9, 2011:

"While I do not know Betty's children, Betty has been a special P.E.O. sister to me. She will be missed by many. Sorry I cannot be at the service as we are in Arizona."

Sheila (Huseman) Erck wrote on Dec 9, 2011:

"Was so sorry to hear about Betty's passing, I will be going over to my Mom's tomorrow to tell her. I know she will take the news very hard. All of you will be in our thoughts and prayers. I have alot of great pictures of your parents,mine,& Marge & Andy on a picnic, and wedding and graduations. They were all great friends for life. I am sorry we don't live closer so we could attend, know we are thinking of you. Sheila, Rick Erck & Blythe Huseman"

Barbara Cunningham wrote on Dec 8, 2011:

"So sorry for the lost of my friend and your mom. Betty will be missed by many friends as well as you and the family. What a nice lady. I am glad I got to know her at church. Prayers are with you. "

Jana Voitenko wrote on Dec 8, 2011:

"My condolences to the family & friends of Mrs Leacox. "

Paula Harold wrote on Dec 8, 2011:

"Janie, Chris,Kristen and Marcia: Sorry to hear about Betty. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Keith and Paula Harold"