Betty J. Dawkins

Betty Jean Dawkins (nee: Gordon, Lower) passed away at 6:50 p.m. Thursday, July 4, 2024, in Shelbyville Manor.

She was born at home on December 23, 1932, the daughter of Elmer “Bud” and Lois M. (Tate) Gordon in Shelbyville, IL. She attended all eight grades in a one room schoolhouse (Dugout) and graduated from Shelbyville High School in the Class of 1950 and from Sparks Business College in 1951. She worked at Oliver Corporation (White Farm Equipment) until its closing and retired from Shelby Electric Cooperative in 1995. She married Frank “Prunie” Lower in 1956 and Lyle F. Dawkins in 1983, and both preceded her in death.

Betty Jean loved her Church, First Christian Church, in Shelbyville and attended since age five. She chaired many committees and was Elder Emeritus. She was an organist for over 25 years and played for over 250 funerals. She was Treasurer and later Financial Secretary at the church. She was a life member of American Legion Auxiliary #81, VFW Auxiliary #4829, Women of the Moose #1325, and Shelby County Historical Genealogical Society. She was a member of Elect Lady #40 Order of Eastern Star and a former member of Rose Unit Home Extension, Coles Co. 8/40 and Theta Pi Gamma Sorority.

Surviving are the two loves of her life, son, Dr. Fritz E. Lower and wife Monica of Versailles, KY.

Her gentle loving spirit, incredible energy and independence, sense of humor, and down-to-earth wisdom will be greatly missed. She was a friend and confidant to many. She touched many lives and brought several to know the Lord. Betty Jean was a great cook who loved to host big family holiday dinners in her home and the recipe for her rhubarb pies was published in the Decatur Herald and Review.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at First Christian Church, 202 South Broadway, Shelbyville, IL with Rev. Tina Parnell-Miller officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Tuesday at the church. Burial will be in Glenwood Cemetery, Shelbyville, IL. Memorials may be given to First Christian Church. Arrangements are by Howe & Yockey Funeral Home, Shelbyville, IL.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Drs. Prem Sobti and Doris Bowers, Shelbyville Manor nurses and staff, and Sarah Bush Lincoln Hospices nurses and staff for their loving care and support.