Betty Jo Cardozo

Betty Jo was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who brought joy to all who knew her. She had a special gift for making others feel seen, valued, and deeply loved, often sharing that it was the joy of the Lord that guided her life.

She graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and taught school for three years before dedicating herself fully to her family—a role she cherished most. She also had a passion for gardening and shared her talents as the owner and designer of Garden Creations for Special Occasions, creating beautiful spaces throughout the Modesto area. She especially treasured time spent at the family cabin with loved ones.

Betty Jo was married to her beloved husband, A. A. Cardozo, Jr. (Mickey), for 47 years until his passing in 2004. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy Elenor Crysler and Ellis Crysler, and by her husband.

She is lovingly survived by her four children and their spouses: Vicki and Paul Ollson; Becky and Casey Giffen; Cyndi and Richard Honnette; and Chris and Marissa Cardozo; her 11 grandchildren: Matthew and Timothy Ollson; Patrick, Jacob, Nicholas, and Spencer Giffen; Jordan, Taylor, and Brooke Honnette; Ashton and Chloe Cardozo; her four great-grandchildren: Raleigh, Briggs, Laurelye, and Penelope Giffen; her sister, Dorothy Martch; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, April 8, at 3:00 p.m. at Modesto Christian School at the Cross. A private burial will follow at a later date at Lakewood Funeral Home in Hughson, California.