Verleen "Betty" Downing

Springfield, MO (formerly of Carthage)

Verleen "Betty" Downing the daughter of Cash and Pearl Pettijohn was born March 4, 1922 in Payson, Utah and departed this life March 13, 2009 at the age of 87 years and 9 days.

Betty and Lawrence E. Downing were united in marriage on May 11, 1940 in Moab, Utah. Lawrence and Betty were blessed with three sons.

Betty was a resident of Springfield, MO for the past 14 years, moving there from Dudenville, MO. She was employed for many years as a supply clerk for a poultry processing company.

Betty loved camping, fishing and doing anything outdoors. She was proclaimed by her family as the best cook in the world. Betty attended Dale Street Baptist Church in Springfield.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband,Lawrence, one son , Lynn Oliver Downing, one sister, Loretta, a brother, Randy Pettijohn, and her parents. Her survivors include two sons, Clarence Downing, Springfield, MO, Charles Downing, Pierce City, MO, seven grandchildren, Ed Downing, Brett Downing, Clarence Ruben Downing, Steven Downing, Robert Downing, Rachelle Schrader, Collier Downing, 15 great grandchildren, 6 great-great grandchilden, one sister, Vercene Walker and husband Robert, Colorado Springs, one nephew Robert E. Walker and a host of other relatives and friends.

Services will be 2:00 P.M. Monday, March 16, 2009 in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Ava, MO with the Rev. Danny Douglas officiating. Interment will follow in the Turkey Creek Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday 12:30 P.M. untill service time.