Betty Jean Billings

Betty Jean Billings was born February 11, 1934 in Albia, Iowa. She was a beautiful surprise to her parents, George and Elizabeth Stevenson, since her mom was 49 when Betty was born. She grew up loved and cherished by her parents and her four older siblings. Hazel, her older sister by 25 years, was a second mother to her. 

By the time of her graduation from Albia High School, Betty was dating the love of her life, Ron. In Albia, they were known as Babe and Betty Jean. Ron was two years older and enlisted in the Army during the Korean War. While Ron was on leave in December 1952, they planned a wedding in less than two weeks and were married December 26, 1952. Betty went home to Jesus on their 72nd anniversary. 

Betty moved to Des Moines for work while Ron was in the service and this is where they made their home following his discharge. Betty became trained as a stenographer and was adept at the lost art of shorthand. She worked for the state before she began working for the Rock Island Railroad, which later became the Chicago Northwestern. She worked for the railroad for over 30 years. 

Ron and Betty had two daughters, Ronda and Meribeth. Betty was a devoted mom, grandmother and great grandmother. She loved her son-in-laws as sons. She was happiest when we all could be together. She would do anything for each of us.

Betty loved Jesus and her life was built around her faith. Early in their marriage, Ron and Betty began attending Central Gospel Chapel which later became Creekside Church. Betty’s closest friends, her buddies, were a part of her church family. 

Betty made friends wherever she went. She started going to the YMCA and later began teaching water aerobics. Some very special friendships were made and this group continues to meet together. She only had four months at Kennybrook Village but had already made an impact with staff and residents. 

Betty loved the outdoors and being active. She loved to walk, to be in her swimming pool and, if you really wanted her to be happy, you would take her on a boat ride. She enjoyed waterskiing and snowskiing.

Betty left this earth December 26, 2024. She will be deeply missed by her precious husband, Ron, Ronda and Rick Gentosi, Meribeth and Doug Tenney, 8 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. 

A public visitation will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Creekside Church (2743 82nd Pl, Urbandale, IA 50322) from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., with a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be held at Sunny Hill Cemetery, in Grimes, IA, following the luncheon.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Creekside Church.