Betty Jo Stephenson passed away Thursday, July 1 at her home in Ceres.

She was born August 14, 1935 in Palatka, Florida and moved to California when she was six years old.

Betty was a woman who forged her own path. She raised her children on her own, imparting to them the importance of strength and independence. Betty enjoyed shopping, making ceramics, sewing, playing old video games, watching television, and loved reading. Most of all she was selfless in caring for her mother and adored her grandchildren.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, Henry Vanderpool and Huldine Milani, and her brother, Jack Vanderpool. She is survived by her daughters, Lisa Crafton and Dana Phipps (Devin); grandchildren, Kelli Fincher, Morgan Webb, Makayla Phipps, and Zack Phipps; and great-granddaughter, Trinity Fincher.

A celebration of Betty’s life will be held at a later date.

–Ceres (Calif.) Courier

Wednesday, July 14, 2021