With family in attendance, Betty Beatrice Baker Johnson, of Springfield, died on February 26, 2015 in Mercy Hospital. She was born July 20, 1930, the third child of Roxie Elizabeth Jones Baker and Charlie Lynn Baker of Stone County, Missouri. Her early childhood was spent in the Galena area, then, the family moved to Springfield. When she was sixteen years of age, she met a young soldier, Donald James Johnson, while skating at Doling Park. After a three week whirlwind romance and a birthday, the couple drove to Harrison, Arkansas and were married. Before Don died in 2010 they celebrated sixty-three years of marriage. From their often eventful marriage, four children were born; Theresa Jo Johnson, Donna Jane Johnson Baldi, Lea Anna Johnson Tracy and Donald James Johnson, jr. Betty was a great cook. Her cooking was greatly missed after she became blind. She never complained about the loss of her sight, she simply soldiered on. She made the best of things in her last years by curling up in a warm bed and listening to "books on tape." She taught by exampleto help everyone in our path. Many people had helped her and she wanted that kindness passed on, as she always tried to do. Remaining always faithful to her husband's many dreams and day to day living, she experienced a life full of "for better or worse""for richer or poorer" and her children were very grateful for both their parents. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Don, infant son Donnie and grandson Donald James Tucker "Jay." She was the last of her siblings to depart this earth: Dewey, Jesse Elizabeth, Tom, Barbara, Charlie and Robert. She loved them all deeply and missed them every day of her remaining life. She is survived by the girls: Theresa, Donna and Annie. Theresa's family: James Aldridge, Lou Ashley Tucker Light and husband Jerry, Laurelin Caycee Shulz Steubner and husband Brian, and great-granddaughter Carina Vita. Donna's family: husband Richard, son Peter Allan Baldi and wife Karen. Annie's family: husband, Joe, son Ross William Tracy and wife Kim, their children Lydia Grace Tracy, Octavia Ellen Tracy, Michael Anthony Hoaglin and Lauren Elizabeth Hoaglin. Betty is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and her two sisters-in-law, Betty Baker and Mary Lou Baker. Her early career was as a secretary for Judge Arthur Dennison. Betty told many stories of his kind and generous nature. She and Don spent time on their farm in Long Lane, Missouri and made several close and lasting friendships. Moving back to Springfield, they settled into full retirement. Her family wishes to acknowledge their thanks to all family members who loved and supported their mother, especially during her last years. A very special note of love to Brenda Johnson Simpson for her extra attention to her Aunt Betty. Prayers sent to Tommy McQuilliams, a nephew, who thought of his Aunt Betty as a second mom. Betty will be cremated under the direction of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. At Betty's request, a private graveside service will be held. May the hand of the Lord rest upon her forever. No flowers, please. A donation may be made in her name to C.A.R.E. Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 215, Aurora, MO 65505.