Betty Jo Olson

Betty Jo (Davis) Olson, 90, of Carmel, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2019.

 She was born on October 23, 1928 in St. Bernice, IN to Ruby and Robert Thor (R.T.) Davis.

 Betty spent her early years in the small western Indiana railroad town where she helped on the farm and worked in the family-owned restaurant.  She was active in school and was part of the school council, yearbook team and led the “Yell Squad” (St. Bernice High School Cheerleader).

 As a young adult, Betty formed a family and had two daughters.  Debbie was her firstborn, and 13 years later her “little surprise” Lisa came along.

Throughout the years as her family grew and life changes occurred, Betty always focused on keeping her daughters’ needs ahead of her own by balancing mothering and working in Terre Haute.

As God’s plan laid out for Betty and her next phase in life, some family friends introduced her to a work colleague named Bill Olson.  Bill and Betty connected immediately, married within weeks, and were inseparable for 30 years until Bill’s passing in 2000. Together they touched many lives and were a blessing to all they met.

Betty and Bill were active in their church, and after Bill’s passing Betty continued to volunteer her talents to assist the staff in any way she could.  She was always ready to give the children at the church’s preschool a warm smile and a loving hug. 

 Betty struggled with dementia over the last few years of her life, but she used her signature stubbornness and selflessness to make the most of every day.  She is missed here on earth but is welcomed by all of her loved ones and her Creator in Heaven. 

 In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death her husband Bill Olson and her daughter Debbie. 

Survivors include her daughter, Lisa (Mike) Russell; grandchildren, Tatiana Russell, Zachary (Kimmy) Russell, and Nicholas Russell; great-grandchildren, Adalyn Russell and Garrett Russell; stepchildren, Bill (Laurie) Olson, Jr, Linda (Joe) Daily, Gary Olson; step-grandchildren; Jeff Daily, Lora Baker, Doug Olson, and Chris Olson.

 Family and friends will gather on Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at 4:30 pm in Thrive Christian Church, 15091 Towne Road, Westfield, IN 46074, where the Celebration of Life Service will begin at 6 pm.

In memory of Betty, contributions may be made to Thrive Christian Church, 15091 Towne Road, Westfield, IN 46074. Envelopes will be available at the service.

Arrangements entrusted to Bussell Family Funerals, Westfield-Carmel.

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