Betty Jean Barnum

Betty Jean Barnum of St. Louis passed away Thursday, October 20, 2016 at the age of 77. She was born on January 7, 1939 in Dearborn, MI to Ernest Lloyd and Dorothy Graham. Betty attended La Porte, IN high school until graduating in 1958. She then married and had four children; Patricia, David, Theresa, and Norman. She raised her family in Columbia, MO after living a short time in Fort Myers, FL before returning to Missouri.

Betty is survived by her children Patricia and Jim Dunn of Barnhart, MO, Theresa Gornet of Chesterfield, MO and Norman and Peggy Barnum of Maryland Heights, MO. Beloved grandchildren Sean (Vinny) Vincent-Dunn, Jimmy (Krystal) Dunn, Rachel Gornet, Brian (Kristina) Dunn, Beth Barnum, Leah Gornet, Stacy Barnum, and step-grandson Derrick Davis. Also surviving is a sister, Bev and husband, John Kamler, of Washington, MO, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews throughout Missouri and Michigan. Betty is preceded in death by her parents, one child, David, and son-in-law, Mark Gornet.

Betty had a quick wit and a razor-sharp mind. She never came to a party empty-handed and was famous for her delicious desserts. She enjoyed country music and loved to dance. Betty was also known as a hard worker all her life. She worked in Columbia, MO in the 1970’s as the clerk for most public auctions held at the old fairgrounds. Later, she went to work for Restaurant Supply in Columbia until moving to St. Louis in 1988, where she took a job as the administrative assistant for Hans Wiemann Hair Restoration and worked there over 25 years until her death. Betty also enjoyed her part-time work at Rockwood Valley Middle School. Betty unselfishly left this earth directing that her organs be donated, thus impacting over 60 lives with her loving generosity.

Betty Barnum will be remembered by family, friends and co-workers during a celebration of life on Tuesday, October 25, 2016 at 10:00 am at St. John Church located at 15800 Manchester Road in Ellisville, MO. Betty adored caring for plants and flowers, so any received will be treasured during her service, then passed along by the Church for others to enjoy. Donations can also be made in Betty’s name to the Humane Society.