Betty J. McCormick, age 79, passed away on June 13, 2025, at the University of Kansas Health Systems, St. Francis in Topeka, Kansas.
She was born on November 29, 1945, in Manhattan, Kansas, the daughter of Vinton and Phyllis (Jones) McCormick.
Betty’s education included attending school in Paxico, where she graduated in the class of 1963.
Betty then worked as a key punch operator in Topeka. In 1965, Betty met her best friend Pat Davis, and her free spirit took the lead. She packed up her car and moved to Colorado Springs, where she spent 50 years making memories and dedicated 38 years to the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs as a key punch operator and advanced to the Budget Manager for Supply.
Family was incredibly important to Betty, and she returned to Alma, Kansas, in May of 2022, to be closer to them, where she spent the last three years. In 2008, Betty adopted her best friend Angel, a four-legged rescue. They quickly developed a special bond. Angel became Betty’s loyal companion, fierce protector, and constant support for many years. Angel passed away on April 6, 2024, leaving a void that Betty felt deeply.
Betty was known for her love of NASCAR and travel, with Hawaii being her favorite destination. She was also particularly fond of the mountains; her work allowed her to travel frequently, allowing her to enjoy many new places. Betty was also a fan of country music; she enjoyed listening to The Oaks, often referring to the artists as her friends, showing her connection to the music, which she enjoyed.
Betty is preceded in death by her parents, Vinton and Phyllis McCormick, and sister Roberta Rohleder.
She is survived by her brother Roger (Jackie) McCormick of St. George, KS; her three sisters, Barb (Joe) Zeller of Paxico, KS, Pat (Bruce) Erikson of McFarland, KS, and Carol (Royce) TenEyck of Alma, KS. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held on June 22, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Campanella & Stewart Funeral Home located at 4370 Salzer Rd. P.O. Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.
A funeral service will take place on June 23, 2025, at 10:30 AM at the Paxico/McFarland United Methodist Church, 305 Newbury Ave, Paxico, KS 66526.