Bettye Jo Baldock

Bettye Jo Baldock was born in 1942 to parents Frances and Robert Krause. She grew up in San Diego, California but was also deeply influenced by Frances' southern roots as they spent time in Mississippi when she was young. While still in school, she met her husband Louis Baldock and they were married for nearly 60 years. After Lou finished college, they moved to San Jose to find work and they lived there for the rest of their lives. They were married nearly 60 years.

If you knew Bettye, you immediately fell in love with her. She was just that type of person. She was incredibly kind, a wonderful listener, and just had a light inside of her that shined out to all. Growing up with her as your mom, meant unconditional love no matter what kind of silly situation you found yourself in. This feeling was even stronger for her 5 grandchildren. Both her and Lou, showered them with whatever they wanted and they could do no wrong. You want to play water balloons? We'll get the hose ready. You want to ride a train? We'll take a trip on the light rail. Summers were spent at their home with Bettye, their own personal activities director. The phrase "apple time" would get any of them running towards Grandma for cut and peeled apples. She was able to give them toys or take them to Chucky E. Cheese whenever she wanted. The things she did for them were ones she could not do for her children. It was a privilege she relished and did not waste.

While her mother was an avid seamstress, Bettye's art was crocheting. She crocheted stuffed animals for her kids, but was most famous for the many afghans that are littered around the area. Many a baby got multiple blankets to make sure there was always a clean blanket after a spill. She made afghans for any occasion: weddings, birthdays, or Christmas presents. Just tell her the colors you want and give her some time. Most people still have the blankets and they have become treasured keepsakes.

Not long after Lou died in 2022, Bettye was told that the breast cancer she endured 30 years ago had come back and the doctors wouldn't even give her a timeline to live, as they didn't think it would be long. Miraculously, she made it until mid 2026. This was because she was determined to live. Determined to be home and spend time with the family she loved so much. Determined to see as many of her grandkids graduate high school and college, if she could. Determined to live the best life she could, given her situation and without any regrets. She accomplished that and we already miss her dearly.

We all love you forever, Mom!

Shari, Suzy, Lou, Rachelle, Brooklyn, Shaun, Aiden, Alex, Coco and too many pets to name.