BETTY LOIS CALFEE passed away peacefully at Majestic Care of North Vernon Friday evening, February 9th, having spent the last two years of her life there and being truly cared for by Majestic’s remarkable team of gentle professionals.
Betty also had the benefit of Our Hospice of Columbus’s kind attention and wisdom.
Betty’s survivors are very thankful to both organizations and the many dedicated people working together for Betty’s benefit.
The youngest of sixteen children, Betty was born at home in Huron Indiana to Laura Wedgewood Grissom and Leonard Grissom in 1937.
Before moving to care, she lived her whole life within Lawrence County, mainly Mitchell, where she kept close track of local lore and enjoyed the hobby of documenting countless family histories, often impressing listeners by reciting from memory the names of their own distant relatives.
During Betty’s work over the years with RCA Bloomington, Carpenter’s Bodyworks, Ted’s Drive-In Restaurant, and the early Hub Restaurants in Mitchell and Bedford, she made many friends of co-workers and customers alike, with some friendships lasting a lifetime. Her voice and wit will be sorely missed.
The late Corena Hinman, friend of 60 years, former Times Mail journalist, often said as the local paper reduced issues, changed delivery methods and ultimately closed its office, “That’s ok, we still have CBS, NBC, and BLC!” (Betty Lois Calfee) The family appreciates Corena and her nephew, Mark Richardson, for their attention to Betty’s needs on their behalf.
Betty is survived by Daughter Julia Golden and her husband, Major John Golden, U.S. Army, Retired, of Leavenworth KS. Granddaughter Keely Golden (Jonathan), great-grandchildren, Damon Grosvenor, Elliot and Mason Golden. Grandson Chad Golden (Stephanie) and great-grandson, Zander. As well as great-grandson Colin Turner (Chelsea) and great-great-granddaughter Oaklynn.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Daughter Deborah Turner, and grandsons Jamie and Eric Turner.
There will be a graveside service at Mitchell Cemetery Friday, February 16th at 11 am. All who knew Betty or wish to see the family are welcome to attend.
The family thanks and gratefully commends Justin Davis at Ochs-Tetrick for his tremendous help and kindness with pre-arrangement of Betty’s final care.
