Betty Jo Becker, age 83 of Springfield, MO., passed peacefully to rest in the joy of our Lord, with family by her side at Quail Creek Skilled Nursing on July 17, 2014. She was born May 12, 1931 in Mt. Vernon, MO., the daughter of Harry and Veda Smith. She graduated from St. John's School of Nursing in 1954, and worked as an R.N. for St. John's Hospital; Paul Mueller Co., and Dayco. In addition to her years of care in nursing, she went on to work at Bass Pro Outdoor World in 1990, where she received many recognitions of outstanding years of service until she retired in 2009. She loved her work and helping others; spending time with her grandchildren and great-granddaughter. She also enjoyed her flower gardens, bird watching, her animals, and watching the St. Louis Cardinals. She was preceded in death by her parents; adoptive family Elva B. & Ida Elizabeth Garringer of Mt. Vernon, MO; and sister Billie Mae Smith Eberlin. She is survived by her three children, Steven B. of Mt. Vernon, Terry and Lisa; grandchildren, Zach and Justin; great-granddaughter, Alexia; and ex-husband, Lloyd L. Becker all of Springfield, MO. A special heartfelt thank you to Dr. Richard Cunningham, Hospice Mercy, Hospice Compassus. And in this last year, the blessing of all her loving caregivers, who touched her life - with love, hugs, and brought her laughter and smiles. We love you, your family and friends will miss you very much. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, July 29 at 1:00 p.m. in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Mt. Vernon, MO with the Rev. Scott Watson officiating under the care of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left at www.gormanscharpf.com In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Southwest Missouri Humane Society, 3161 W. Norton Rd, Springfield, MO 65803; Hospice Compassus, 1465 E. Primrose, Springfield, MO 65804; or the Greater Missouri Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, 1630 W. Elfindale, Springfield, MO 65807.