Betty Jo Kenney passed away April 16, 2014. She was born February 24, 1923 in Oklahoma City and was raised in Elk City, Oklahoma. She became a registered nurse through training in the Cadet Nurse Corp during World War II. Shortly after World War II she met and married Jack Kenney. They had two children, John and Bruce. Her work as a Registered Nurse brought unique and rewarding experiences caring for others. She was a part of the group that formed what is believed to be the first specialized cardiac care unit in Oklahoma at St. Anthony's Hospital. As a nurse, she volunteered for the American Red Cross. In retirement, she worked as a volunteer at Baptist Hospital. She had a knack for being in the right place. For example, she met and was blessed by Mother Theresa on a plane flight to Rome, Italy. With thousands present, she ended up within a few yards of Pope John Paul on his visit to San Antonio, Texas.
She was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church. She enjoyed the Ladies Music Club, the Orchestra League and her sorority, Delta Zeta. She was very proud of her work as a docent for 25 years at the National Western Heritage and Cowboy Museum.
She lived a successful life as a devoted wife, mother and nurse. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack and son, Bruce. She is survived by her son, John and his wife, Jane; daughter-in-law, Kathy Kenney; brother, Randal Shelton and his wife, Dorothy. She is also survived by grandchildren, Allen Kenney and wife Heather, John Kenney and fiancé, Elizabeth, Jayne Kenney, Graham Kenney and wife Kelli, and Lauren Garabelli and husband Paul, and six great grandchildren of which she was immensely proud.
Donations may be made to the Catholic Charities or the National Western Heritage and Cowboy Museum.