Betty Jones, 99, of Clay Center, Kansas, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2023. Betty was born in Auburn, NE and spent most of her early life in rural communities in Washington County before moving to Clay Center, KS where she raised her family.
In 1939, Betty married Lawrence Dodd, and together they embarked on a life of farming and building their family until Lawrence’s passing in 1976. Betty’s dedication to education led her to Kansas State University and Cloud County Community College, where she earned her certifications in Food Services as a Dietician. For 15 years, she served as the Food Manager at the Clay Center Presbyterian Manor, touching the lives of many with warm heart.
In 1982, Betty found love again and married Howard Jones, with whom she shared numerous adventures until his passing in 1998. Together, they served as camp hosts in the picturesque landscapes of Colorado and Wyoming for over a decade, creating cherished memories and lifelong friendships.
Betty had a passion for exploration and traveled extensively, visiting most of the states in the US and even embarking on a memorable trip to India. She found solace and creativity in quilting, a talent she generously shared with her family, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and artistry.
Betty was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church and a dedicated 4-H Leader for the Washington Headliners, inspiring the youth with her wisdom and kindness. Family meant everything to Betty, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, survived by her daughters Opal, Sandra, Cathy, and Sharon her 10 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
10 Grandchildren: Jeff Clark, Noel Clark, Connie Jordan, Bonnie Wohler, Jennifer Starchman, Julie Moffatt, Rebecca Long, Sean Cullip, Chancy Cullip and Jessica McKee
18 Great Grandchildren: Cody Clark, Mitchell Clark, Mackenzie Garner, Caleb Clark, Bridgette Ochoa, Gentry Jordan, Sydney Jordan, Blake Wohler, Brenna Wohler, Kaitlyn Tharp, Iliana Tharpe, Cathleen Hyde, Journey Jess, Tristan Cullip, Trout Dorhman, Cristianne Cullip, Bella McKee, Tiberius McKee
4 Great Great Grandchildren: Damien Perigen, Tomas Ochoa, Josiah Garner, Raegan Hyde
Betty was preceded in death by her parents Elmer Dankenbring and Rose Potard, her daughter Debra Dodd, son Franklin Dodd, grandson Noel Clark, four sisters, and four brothers. She was also preceded in death by her first husband Lawrence Dodd and her second husband Howard Jones.
Betty will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her love for family, her spunk, and her adventurous spirit. Her absence leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her legacy of love, kindness, strength, and resilience will continue to inspire generations to come.
“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” – Thomas Campbell
Funeral services will be 10:30 AM Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at the First Baptist Church in Clay Center.
Visitation will be 9:30 until service time on Wednesday, November 1 at the church.
Memorials in lieu of flowers to The First Baptist Church or American Cancer Society c/o the funeral home
