Betty Jean Kent (Cooper)

Betty was born on October 27, 1921 in Dayton, Ohio to Donald Cooper and Ethel Dynes Cooper, the oldest of seven children. She married Jean Leverett Kent on September 24, 1939 in Glendale, California, and they were happily married for 57 years. Betty was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Her overall purpose in life was caring for her family.

Betty enjoyed tap dancing from an early age; something she continued to practice for exercise and delight into her late 80’s. She taught classes later in life to fellow residents at her Del Webb Community in Lincoln, California, where she was also a member of the choir. She loved to sew and paint, displaying her artistic side; and was a true patriot, following local and national elections. She was always a “ray of sunshine” for anyone in her presence, providing a quick smile and an infectious laugh. Her legendary Thanksgiving dinner was a highlight for her family, providing wonderful food, beautiful table settings, and lots of laughter and entertainment. She and her husband were always eager to be the center for this special holiday occasion late into to their lives.

Preceding her in death are her husband, Jean, and son, Steven.

Surviving are her daughters: Barrie Kline of Longmont, and Cheryl (Jim) Barber, of Walnut Creek, California; six grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; three brothers and a sister, of Florida.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 24, at McDonald’s Chapel, Redding, California. An interment will follow at Redding Memorial Park, where she will be laid to rest next to her husband, Jean.

Contributions may be made to the ALS Golden West Chapter, P.O. Box 565, Agoura Hills, CA 91376 or Disabled Veterans, 155 Van Gordon St., Lakewood, CO 91376.