Betty Jane Johnson

On Wednesday, July 8, 2020, Betty Jane Johnson, longtime Essex Iowa resident, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 in Julesburg Colorado.

Betty was born in York County, Nebraska in 1928 to Clarence and Hilma (Johnson) Johnson, with sisters Ruth (Gus Alm) & Anna Mae (Bob Martin), and brother Wally (Barb Dadoe).

She married Harvey Wesley Diehl in 1947 and together they had three children, Larry (Nancy Hughes), Derry (Delores Weed), and Pam (Mark Ketchum).

Reading was her passion; especially historical fiction and westerns. She wanted enough books to open a library of her own. Betty also enjoyed her crossword puzzles, and she delighted in spending time with her family. One of her favorite memories from Essex was working in the daycare with the smallest children. While living in Wray, Colorado she enjoyed spending time with the 55-And-Over Club.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Harvey, her siblings, and her son Larry. She is survived by her children Derry and Pam, as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Betty will be laid to rest with her parents in Essex.

Schmidt-Jones Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.