Longtime Springfield resident Betty Jo Cummings, died July 24, 2008, at Mercy St. John's Care Center. She was 87.

Betty Jo was born December 6, 1920, in Los Angeles, California to Roy and Willa Belle Naugle.

She graduated from Los Angeles High School in 1938 and married William Cummings on June 4, 1943. After living in California, Texas, and New York, they settled in Ohio where they lived on Possum Road for many happy years. She was a member of The First United Church of Christ. Betty Jo enjoyed spending time with her friends and family. She was both an accomplished seamstress and knitter and loved playing bridge with her friends. In retirement, she enjoyed the travel adventures she shared with her husband and her sister Peggy, and living in her condo in Florida.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Gail Cummings of Tacoma, WA; her son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Bonnie Cummings of Springfield; her daughter and son-in-law, David and Susan (Cummings) Ruddock of Columbus, OH; grandchildren, Hollee Cummings, Scot Cummings, Stephanie Cummings, Staci and Justin Cox, Andy Ruddock, Greg Ruddock, Great-grandchild, Schuyler Cummings; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Betty Jo was preceded in death by her husband, William, and her sisters Mary Elizabeth, Elsie Jane, and Marguerite.

Betty Jo was blessed to have two very special caregivers who made it possible for her to continue living in her lovely condo during her later years, Lucretia Chisholm and Cheryl Early. They become her very dear friends and we are most grateful for their loving care and friendship. Her family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Mercy St John's Center for the excellent care provided to Betty Jo during her stay with them.

A celebration of Betty Jo's life will be held at the home of Bob & Bonnie Cummings for friends and family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.