Betty Jane Bellizzi

Betty Jane Dixon Bellizzi, formerly of Heitman, Iowa, passed away peacefully in her home of over 60 years in Des Moines, on Friday, August 10, 2012.

Visitation will be held Sunday, August 19, at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street, 4:00-6:00 pm, with an American Legion service at 5:30 pm, and a vigil service at 6:00 pm. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 am, Monday, August 20, 2012, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, with burial following at Glendale Cemetery, and a luncheon at the Elk’s Lodge, 5420 NE 12th Avenue, Pleasant Hill.

The youngest of 10 children, Betty Jane was born July 2, 1917, to Henry Harry and Jane (Johnston) Dixon. She was survived by sister Bessie Miller of Kokomo, Indiana, and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Betty Jane attended the University of Iowa in Iowa City, majoring in nursing for 2 years, followed by enlistment in the US Navy where she rose to the rank of Lt. jg, First Class RN. She served in San Diego and Chicago, and was discharged after 5 years of service. She returned to her family in Des Moines and on July 2, 1947, married Louis J. Bellizzi.

Betty Jane worked for the US Government for over 40 years, and was active with the American Legion, having served as President of the Bellizzi MacRae Auxiliary, as well as other offices in other auxiliaries. She was also active in the Veterans of Foreign Affairs organization, serving as the Polk County Commander, was Lady of the Year for the ABWA, and a member of the DOES.

Betty Jane grew up on a farm and helped her dad in the fields and with milking chores. Her dad said, “she was the best farm boy I ever had.” Throughout her life, she was very active, adventurous, and always willing to help those in need. She was also very family-oriented, and when her sister passed away, she promised to help raise her three children, Larry Biggs of Kaneohe, Hawaii, Mary Ella Biggs of Des Moines (deceased), and Karen Sue Biggs Leeds of Arlington, Virginia, making sure they received their education and went on to college. In addition to her serious side, there was a playful and fun loving side, known as Betty Boop to many of her friends.

A quotation found in her things says, “You hunger for life beyond the mundane. Where friends need you or business associates want you, you show up all smiles and handshakes, ready to contribute whatever you can.” Betty was also down to earth, “told it like it was,” and was never pretentious.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to American Legion Auxiliary Unit 659, College Nursing Fund.

Online condolences may be sent to:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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