Betty Jo McCormick

Betty Jo McCormick, 64, of Julesburg, Colorado, passed away on December 20, 2024, at the Sedgwick County Hospital in Julesburg.

Jo was born December 30, 1959, in Cheyenne County, Kansas, to Melvin B. Steele and Roberta Ann Blankenship. She spent her early childhood in Kansas before attending Northeastern Junior College, where she earned a degree in early childhood education. Jo worked in early childcare and elder care throughout her life, devoting herself to nurturing and caring for others.

On November 26, 1983, she married Howard McCormick, and they were blessed with two children, Bridget and Vance. The couple would not remain married but remained friends and raised their children together.

Jo was known for her spunk and sassy attitude. She was never afraid to speak her mind, and those who knew her could always count on her honesty and humor. She loved wildlife and outdoor photography, capturing nature's beauty with talent and care. Jo also enjoyed crocheting, square dancing, and line dancing, hobbies that highlighted her creative spirit.

Jo was one of the original first responders who served as part of the Sedgwick Fire Department's effort to provide rescue assistance in the late 1980s. She later joined the ambulance service and lent her knowledge and ability to teaching CPR and first aid classes over the years.

Jo cherished spending time with her children and grandchildren, and had a natural way of fostering an environment where they felt free to be themselves. Jo's unconditional love and acceptance made her a source of comfort and inspiration for her family. Later in life, a stroke impacted her physical abilities, but it never diminished her humor or tenacity.

Jo was preceded in death by her sisters, Roxie and Bobbie; her son-in-law, Cameron Britton; and her bonus sister, Dort Buttle.

Survivors include her children, Bridget Britton of Ovid and Vance (Stephanie) McCormick; grandchildren, Lily, Zach, Phillip, Elizabeth, Georgianna, and Jojo; her siblings, Bud (Linda) Steele and Annie (Bud) Kehler; former spouse Howard McCormick, sister-in-law Louise McCormick, and brother-in-law Phil McCormick; bonus family members Bonnie, Polly, Harry, and Thelma (and their children); and many other relatives and friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home Chapel in Julesburg. No inurnment is planned at this time.

Memorials are suggested to Sedgwick County Nursing Home or Assisted Living in Jo's memory. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsjulesburg.com.

Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Julesburg is in charge of arrangements.