Betty Jane LaRocca

Betty Jane LaRocca, 97, of Springfield, died at 9:15 a.m. on Saturday, September 8, 2018, at St. Josephs Home. Betty was born October 18, 1920, in Detroit, MI, the daughter of John and Mercedes Peddlar Keagle. She married James David LaRocca, Sr. on October 18, 1941, in St. Charles, MO; he preceded her in death on February 15, 2015. Betty was in the first graduating class at Lanphier High School in 1937 and attended Browns Business College. She was a skilled secretary who worked first for Springfield School District 186 at Lanphier High School. Betty then worked for the State of Illinois Department of Public Aid until her retirement after an extended career. Betty was a member of Third Presbyterian Church and a bridge club for many years. She and her husband were also long-time members of the 38 Club. After retirement, she and her husband enjoyed spending their winters in FL where she loved doing water aerobics and playing BINGO. Betty also enjoyed crocheting, playing the piano, harmonica, and ukulele, and dancing with her husband. She was also preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Gloria Brown and Marjorie Howell. She is survived by her three children, Diana (John) Meyer of Springfield, J. David (Marcy) LaRocca, Jr. of New Albany, OH, and J. Dale (Debbie) LaRocca of Springfield; nine grandchildren, Christopher (Theresa) Meyer, Lesley (Ben) Failor, Corey (Blake) Lipe, J.D. (Sara) LaRocca, III, Evan (Shannon) LaRocca, Kara LaRocca, Jennifer (Zak) Gurnsey, Jason LaRocca, and Amanda (Bola) Odubiro; and ten great-grandchildren, Lydia, Emma, Amelia, Addison, Connor, Jay, Carter, Nathan, Henry, Bryce, and baby Lipe on the way. A private family graveside ceremony will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Josephs Home, 3306 S. 6th St., Rd., Springfield, IL 62703 or Land of Lincoln Honor Flight, 57 Country Place, Springfield, IL 62703.