Elizabeth Jane Cavanaugh

Elizabeth J. (Betty) Cavanaugh, 82, formerly of Monmouth, passed away on Sunday, Dec 6, 2015 at Mission Subacute Center in San Jose, CA. Born to T. James and Helen (Lee) Cavanaugh on May 16, 1933, she was the fourth of six children. Reared on her parent’s farm east of Monmouth, Betty attended Farmer’s Academy, graduating from Monmouth High School in 1952. Betty worked for nearly 60 years as a bookkeeper for numerous auto dealerships in both Illinois and California. She loved to dance and enjoyed spending her spare time with family, friends and her beloved cat, Sally. She attended San Agustin Catholic Church for 20 years. She is survived by her partner of more than 30 years, Ronald (Ron) Baker, of San Jose, CA, her two sons, Rick Shea and wife Loni of Rio Vista, CA and Terrence (Terry) Shea of Portales, NM. She leaves behind six grandchildren Rick, Robert, Raelene, Jamie, Angela and Melonie, as well as, 15 great-grandchildren. Two sisters, Dolores (Joe) McCleary of Monmouth and Kathleen (Dick) Rowley, of Monmouth and her brother Jim (Rosalie) Cavanaugh of Kirkwood also survived. Betty was preceded in death by two elder sisters – Roberta O’Brien and Maryrose Sullivan and grandson Ryan Harrington. A funeral service is planned for 11:30 a.m. on Monday, Dec 14, 2015 at Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary, 466 N. Winchester Blvd., Santa Clara. Interment will be at the Santa Clara Mission Cemetery.