Betty L. Atkinson

Betty L. Atkinson, 90, of Springfield passed away peacefully at the home of her niece, Mary Beth Garcia of Tucson, AZ.

Betty resided in Tucson for the past several years following the death of her husband, Dory A. Newman. She was born on July 24, 1930 in Springfield to Thomas and Willie Marie (Slattery) Atkinson.

She married Dory Newman of Virginia, IL in 1984 and he preceded her in death. Betty was the youngest of eight children; preceding her in death are brothers John, William, Robert and Thomas, sisters Helena, Laura, and Phyllis.

Betty was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and in later years attended St. Aloysius Catholic Church. She graduated from Sacred Heart Girl’s Academy and spent her career in public service. She was employed by the State of Illinois working at the Department of Mental Health and Public Aid. She completed an A.A. Degree in Liberal Arts at Springfield College in Illinois.

She is survived by several nieces and nephews.

Internment will take place at Calvary Cemetery.

Due to Covid-19 conditions there will be a family memorial take place later this year.

As a youth, Betty was a member of (CYO) Catholic Youth Organization that involved social activities and cultural trips as well as volunteer services to children and the elderly. She visited children in the hospital, garbed in clown costume while dancing and singing. She sang high soprano and was a choir member at church for most of her life. She performed in local theater as an accomplished singer and dancer. She loved dancing and was a founding member of a Singles Dancing Club in Springfield. She helped to hire bands and organize weekly dances. She met her husband, Dory Newman of nearby Virginia through the Singles Club. They married while Betty was still working, then during their retirement years they spent time in Florida and Arizona as well. She was a wonderful Aunt to many nieces and nephews throughout her entire lifetime. She will be truly missed and has left a loving legacy of memorable times to cherish.

CDC Protocol shall be followed.

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