Betty Jo Dial

1922 - 2020

 

    On Saturday, May 30, 2020, Betty Jo Dial of Carthage, Illinois, passed away peacefully at the age of 97. 

      Betty Jo was born November 21, 1922 in Des Moines, Iowa to Owen and Ruth (Reed) Wheeler. When Betty Jo was a young girl, her family moved to Ottumwa, Iowa. Betty Jo grew up in Ottumwa and graduated from Ottumwa High School in 1940. 

     On November 1, 1943, Betty Jo was united in marriage to Ralph Dial Sr. in Fresno, California. After WWII, they returned to Ottumwa. While raising their only child, Ralph Jr., Betty Jo worked for Farm Bureau and eventually retired from the John Morrell Company after 20 years of service. Betty Jo moved to Keokuk, Iowa in 1991 to be closer to her son and grandkids. Betty Jo enjoyed watching her grandkids’ sporting events and spending time with friends. She loved traveling, especially yearly trips Minnesota. She and Ralph had a cabin on the Des Moines River for many years. This was a favorite getaway to share with her grandkids.

      Betty Jo is survived by her son, Ralph Dial of Keokuk, four grandchildren; Mike (Deena) Dial, Curt (Kendra Abfalter) Dial, Stacy (Paul) Klesner and Jeffery Dial. Ten Great-grandchildren; Jarrett (Kathy), Courtney and Jacob Dial, Cassidy, Cooper, Joseph and Magness Abfalter-Dial, Ben, Kelsey and Kira Klesner, one nephew, Jerry (Alice) Dial and one great-nephew, Eric (Mandi) Dial. Betty Jo was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

      As Betty Jo’s health began deteriorating, she moved to Heritage House in Carthage, Illinois. Her family members are grateful for the loving care she received from Debbie and the staff at Heritage House. 

     Family will meet with friends at the Vigen Memorial Home Friday, June 12 from 5:00-8:00pm.   Social distancing requirements will be in place and attendees will be limited according to those requirements.  Masks are encouraged.  

     A graveside service will be held Saturday, June 13 at 11:30 am at the Pleasantville Cemetery in Pleasantville, Iowa. 

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heritage House, 601 Locust Street, Carthage, Illinois.