Betty Lou (McCrea) Leacox was born on February 5, 1927 in Bedford, Iowa, the daughter of Claude James and Faye (Swearingen) McCrea. Betty entered into eternal peace on Thursday, December 8, 2011 at the Elm Heights Care Center in Shenandoah, Iowa.

Betty attended school in Shenandoah and graduated from Shenandoah High School. Following graduation she attended Creston Community College for one year. On June 15, 1946 she was united in marriage to John Edward Leacox in Shenandoah, Iowa. This union was blessed with the birth of three children; William, James and Janie

During her working years Betty was employed by the Chamber of Commerce as a secretary until the couple purchased Shenandoah Monument Company in 1962. She worked along side her husband until 1980, assisting with the daily duties of the lettering company. She was a loving wife, dedicated mother, and caring grandmother.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Shenandoah, a 50 plus member of PEO, Assistant Director of Southwest Iowa Theater Group and President of the Greater Shenandoah Historical Society. She enjoyed being part of the Sweet Adeline's and Bell Choir at church. Some of her hobbies included playing bridge, reading and doing crossword puzzles in ink. For over 60 years Betty cherished her Saturday coffee with her dear friends.

She was preceded in death of her parents; husband John Leacox; and brother Robert Claude McCrea.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children William R. Leacox of Stocton, CA, James G. Leacox and wife Karin of Overland Park, KS and Janie Leacox Casteel and husband Chris of Atlantic, IA; grandchildren Christin Casteel Blume and husband Chris of Cleveland, MS, Ms. Marcia Casteel of Council Bluffs, IA, John Leacox and Marc Leacox both of Overland Park, KS; other relatives and friends.

May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn her loss.