Elizabeth Jo Sullivan

Elizabeth “Betty” Sullivan passed away on November 28th, 2022. She was born to Joseph and Edna “Carlson” McManus on December 14th, 1938 in Boone, Iowa. She was dedicated to her career as a travel agent, owning Budget Travel for 35 years. She married the love of her life Pat on February 14th, 1992.

Betty was a dedicated wife, mother, and loving friend. She treasured her family and friends, embracing every moment with them. She was known for bringing the people she loved together knowing they would love each other as well. Her kitchen specialties were beef stroganoff on Christmas Eve, deviled eggs and an apple pie that was legendary. She celebrated every season and holiday by adorning her home with festive decorations. She celebrated everyone’s birthdays by sending cards.

A loving nature at heart, Betty loved her garden where you would find her on warm days, planting, reading, watching the birds, and waiting for the little white butterfly to appear, knowing it was a visit from her daughter Beth who passed away in 2006.

She had a vivacious personality which made people around her feel happiness and joy. She had a forgiving nature. She had the gift of “Irish humor” and made friends everywhere she went with the exception of the movies. If there was music in the scene, she would sing along, harmonize, or if there was no music she would hum. This musical career launched when she sang in the chorus of several musical productions at the Des Moines playhouse. Betty was known to answer her flip phone anywhere, anytime as long as she could locate it in her purse. Betty loved driving all over town in a red convertible with the top down and the radio, heat or a/c turned up high. Betty loved her pets, her music, dancing, bargain shopping, and sharing wine with friends.

Left to cherish her memory is her husband of 30 years, Pat; son-in-law Russ Bentall; sister Dee (Jim) VanThorre; brother Joe (Paula) McManus; nieces; Katie Pepper, Amy McKennon, Liz Staunton; nephews Dan Pepper, John McManus, Kyle McManus; and countless friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, daughter Beth, sister Judy Pepper and brother Frank McManus.

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 2, 2022 from 4:00-6:00 PM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in West Des Moines. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at 10:00 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

In honor of Betty and her unconditional love for animals, please consider donating to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa or to the Animal Rescue of your choice.