Betty Jo (Campbell) Kolb

Betty Jo (Campbell) Kolb passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2026, surrounded by her family. She lived a good and long life, leaving behind a century of wonderful memories and a legacy of strength, generosity, curiosity, and love.

Betty Jo was born on October 3, 1925, in Lawrence, Kansas, to Gerald and Pearl Campbell. A proud Jayhawk by birth, she later became a devoted Wolverine. She graduated from the University of Michigan in 1948 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. While at Michigan, she met her future husband, Richard A. Kolb, with whom she shared a rich and full life.

After graduation, Betty Jo worked as a librarian at Dow Chemical. Later in life, she worked as a realtor in Ann Arbor, a community she loved deeply and served faithfully. Betty Jo was active in Ann Arbor civic life, volunteering and holding leadership roles in numerous community organizations, including the Ann Arbor City Club, Ann Arbor Thrift Shop, Henderson House, Michigan League, University of Michigan Museum of Art, and Meals on Wheels, among many others. She was also an active and dedicated member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

Betty Jo was a passionate Michigan Wolverine fan. She avidly followed Michigan football, men’s and women’s basketball, women’s softball, and even hockey. She traveled to see Michigan football play in the Rose Bowl numerous times, attended multiple bowl games, and had the joy of seeing the team win two national championships. She liked to say she was “a Jayhawk who became a Wolverine.”

Betty Jo and her husband traveled extensively with friends and neighbors, exploring destinations around the world and across the country. She and her family also enjoyed many happy years as members of Huron Valley Swim Club and Ann Arbor Golf and Outing. She was part of numerous bridge groups, a book club, and a women’s stock club, forming friendships and sharing laughter throughout the years.

Betty Jo was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard A. Kolb; her parents, Gerald and Pearl Campbell; and her sisters and brother. She is survived by her sons, Rich and his partner, Monica, and Chris and his husband, Ken; her grandchildren, Craig and Melissa; and her great-grandchildren, Ben and Lily.

Betty Jo was highly educated, strong-willed, and a positive influence on her family and friends. She will be remembered for her intelligence, independence, warmth, and enduring devotion to the people and places she loved.

A memorial service will be held on June 20, 2026, 1:00pm at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Ann Arbor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to University of Michigan Museum of Art, Henderson House (UM), Michigan League, St. Andrews Breakfast Program.