Betty Jean Cross

Betty was born in San Antonio, Texas, to Ethel Belle McGahey Johnson and Houston Lymon Johnson. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Roy, but prior to his death they enjoyed a long and happy marriage of more than 58 years. Betty is survived by their daughters Margaret and Cassielee, and their son Matt, daughter-in-law Lisa, granddaughter Nikki Craig Mejias (Joey), and great grandchildren Makayla and Jude, all of Bakersfield. Betty is also survived by one sister, Patsy Lee Thomas, of Texas. Betty and Roy’s daughter Diane and grandson Steven Craig preceded her in death, as did her parents. Her greatest joy in life was her family.

Betty was employed for many years at Freddie’s Top of the Hill, and she retired from her career as Head Banquet Waitress at Maison Jaussaud French Restaurant in order to assist Roy in the family business they started together in 1975, Cross Distributing Company.

Betty was a member of the Zonta Club of Bakersfield for more than 27 years, where she served in numerous capacities, including Club President. She also served the Zonta organization on the State level. In addition, Betty served on the Board of Directors of the Bakersfield Community Theater for many years.

Betty was a dear friend to many, and always had a smile on her face and great happiness in her heart. She loved to laugh, and was a joy to be around. She will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved her.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Wilma and Ernie Edra and the staff at the Trinity House for their loving and devoted care of our mother during her final years as she battled against the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, which is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax-deductible. Their federal tax ID number is 13-3039601. Donations can be made online at http://www.alz.org/site/donate.