Betty Jean Crawford Church

Betty Jean Crawford Church, 96, of Sioux City, IA passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the Sunrise Retirement Community in Sioux City. She was born on February 10, 1929, in Correctionville, IA, to Clarence and Pearl Mae (Lowery) Bolles. Betty's early years were spent in Cherokee.

A proud graduate of Cherokee High School, Betty furthered her education by attending college in Sioux City. It was during this time that she met Bruce Crawford, the love of her life, at the local skating rink. Their romance blossomed, leading to their union in marriage on April 3, 1949, in Ida Grove, IA.

In their professional life, Betty and Bruce co-owned and operated the Sioux City Hearing Aid Center until their retirement in November 1995. Following Bruce’s passing, Betty found companionship with Cecil Church, who shared her passion for dancing and brought joy into her life.

Betty was known for her outgoing and sociable nature, always wearing a warm smile and showering those around her with hugs. She never met a stranger, as her kindness and open-heartedness made her a friend to many. Her hobbies included dancing and engaging in activities at the Senior Center, where she thrived in the company of others. Additionally, Betty had a love for gardening, tending to her beautiful flowers which reflected her nurturing spirit.

She is survived by her two daughters: Vickie (Harry) Matthews of Brooksville, FL, and Leisa (Michael "Zee") Hopman of Islamorada, FL; seven grandchildren: Jason Crawford, Tamara Matthews, Chandra Matthews, Jeff Schultz, Jesse Matthews, Andre (Samantha) Hopman, and Mycle (Andrew) Pourbaix; two great-grandchildren: Parker Pourbaix and Avery Hopman; and one cousin, David (Angie) Via.

Betty reunites in peace with her beloved parents; husbands: Bruce Crawford and Cecil Church; her daughter, KayeLynn Schultz, and two siblings, who preceded her in death.

A graveside service to honor her life will be held at the Ida Grove Cemetery in Ida Grove, IA, on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM.