Born in DeQuincy in 1929 to Kirk and Christine Cockerham, Betty Jo spent nearly her entire life in the town she loved. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose kindness, quiet strength, and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. To those who loved her most, she was simply “Granny.”
A lifelong member of the Methodist Church, Betty Jo’s faith was steady throughout her life. She taught Sunday School for many years and lived out her faith through kindness, compassion, and a willingness to help wherever she was needed.
She spent many years working as an aide at DeQuincy Elementary, where she cared for generations of local children. She also enjoyed spending time with friends through the Contact Study Club, Bunko group, and Supper Club—friendships she treasured throughout her life.
Betty Jo found joy in life’s simple things. She loved painting, tending to her flowers and yard, and traveling. Her favorite time of year was Thanksgiving, when she opened her home to several generations of the Cockerham family and dear friends. For countless years, she joyfully welcomed upwards of 50 people each Thanksgiving, always making room for one more.
She shared a deep and lasting love with her husband, Noel J. “Joe” Brown. She lovingly cared for him during his illness. After his passing, she continued to honor the love they shared for the rest of her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Kirk and Christine Cockerham; her beloved husband of 46 years, Noel J. “Joe” Brown; her daughter, Elizabeth “Sissy” Hennigan; one brother; and three sisters.
She is survived by her daughter, Carol Copes; her son-in-law, Jerry Hennigan; her granddaughters, Emily Rhodes (Kevin), Amy Slaydon (Justin), and Madeline Hennigan; her great-grandchildren, Claire Rhodes, Allie Rhodes, William Rhodes, Abigail Slaydon, and Julianne Slaydon; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Betty Jo will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her generous spirit, and the love she shared so freely with her family, friends, and community. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the hospice team with CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness they provided to Betty Jo and her family during her final days.
A Celebration of Betty Jo's life will be held at Crosspoint Community Church in DeQuincy (formerly DeQuincy Methodist Church) on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 10:00 am, with Rev. James Barrett officiating. Visitation will be at Hixson-Snider Funeral Home in DeQuincy on Monday, July 6, 2026 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Visitation will resume at the church on Tuesday, from 9:00 am until the time of the service. Burial will be at Masonic Cemetery in DeQuincy.
Services entrusted to Jordan and Amanda Mothershed of Hixson-Snider Funeral Home.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonsnider.com.
