Betty Jo Dougan

Betty Jo Dougan, 85, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2020, at the Richmond Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond.  

Betty was born Betty Jo Dillinger, on May 17, 1935, in Bentonville, Arkansas,  to Pearl and Woodrow.  Betty grew up in Arkansas surrounded by her siblings Tom, Don and Shelia, and many cousins. She was preceded in death by her mother, Pearl Underdown; father, Woodrow Dillinger; and by her two much-loved brothers, Tom Dillinger of Kansas City, Mo., and Don Dillinger of Oklahoma City, Oka.  

Betty is survived by her husband of 50 years, William Dougan; her six children, Pam Gamble, Debi Lurvey, Terry and Mike Davis, Paula Gearin and Bill Dougan. She is also survived by her much-adored younger sister, Shelia Gatts; and honorary brother, John Gatts of Hale, Iowa. Betty is also survived by 18 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many loved nieces and nephews.  

Though Betty spent many years in the restaurant and food management/services field, she will always be remembered for the love and care she had for her family and friends, her quick wit, good nature and amazing cooking skills. Betty believed in telling her family she loved them every time she saw or spoke to them. A moment did not go by without her family knowing they were loved. Her home was always open, and no one was made to feel a stranger.  When you left her house after a visit, rain, snow or shine, she would be standing on the porch waving and throwing kisses, until she disappeared from view in the rear-view mirror.

Betty did not want a big service, therefore an event will take place at a date yet to be determined, where family and friends will be encouraged to come and celebrate Betty’s life.