Betty Jo Benton

91, Born in Phoenix, AZ on August 24, 1924, died at home on Jan 9, 2016. Betty had a brother, Chuck and a sister, Jane, who both preceded her in death. Her parents were Charles and Gladys Avery. The family moved to Bakersfield, CA where Betty completed high school and met her future husband Robert Benton at a USO dance for pilot trainees. They married in July 1943 and produced 4 sons. Betty was a lifelong teacher who along with Bob, taught her sons how to live loving and useful lives. She eventually received her Masters in Education from ASU and taught at the first grade level, impacting hundreds of lives. She was active at Bethel United Methodist Church and then First UMC at many levels including Director of Christian Education at First UMC and in and for the church library. She was an activist for peace with justice, women’s and children’s issues, and for the brotherhood of mankind. She served with the Arizona Education Association, holding office and attended national conventions in support of educating students. She was active in Peace Links, hosting delegates from Russia and in return, visiting Russia as a delegate. After over 50 years of marriage, Bob preceded her in death in 1998. Betty is survived by her 4 sons, David (Linda), Douglas (Martha), Don (Jana) and Dale (Patty), nephew, John Sullivan (Diane); grandchildren Lisa, Regina, Kindra, Bradley, Jessie, Andrew, Anthony, Nina, and Tom; and 14 great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Life will be held at First United Methodist Church Phoenix at 5510 N. Central Ave on Monday Jan 25 at 11:00 AM with reception following in the fellowship hall. Betty’s ashes will be placed with her beloved husband’s at the church columbarium. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution in Betty’s name to First United Methodist for the Mingus Methodist Camp Scholarships would be greatly appreciated. She was actively involved in the church for over 50 years.