Betty Jean Atwood

Added to our website by the request of the family.

Betty Jean Atwood, 86, died Sunday May 29, 2016 in Blackfoot, Idaho. Betty Jean was born in Hillsboro, Oregon on May 24, 1930. She moved to Odessa, Texas, met James Audry Atwood and they married a year later on August 30, 1952. They lived in Odessa but continued on to Abilene, TX where they bought into the Phillips 66 franchise and shortly after started their family. Audrey Jean was born on September 16, 1956 followed by John Edward on January 9, 1960. In 1965 they moved to Alamogordo. In Alamogordo James and Betty Jean owned and operated the Ace Motel, BJ Auto Sales and Ace Collection Agency. In May of 1974 Betty got her pilots license. She flew to several places across New Mexico and Texas, she said that flying allowed her to feel so free, like she could go and do anything she wanted. In 1985 they move to San Angelo, Texas and retired in a beautiful home on Lake Nasworthy. In San Angelo, Betty worked at Clothe World. She enjoyed quilting and made many quilts for her family. She loved to make school clothes for her granddaughters. Fishing, boating, and reading were other favorite hobbies. In 1997 she retired to stay home and lovingly care for her husband James. After losing James in 1999 she moved to Idaho Falls to be closer to her daughter.

Betty Jean was devoted to her family, she loved her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and she will forever be the pillar of her family. A woman of strength, fire and dignity, and will forever remain a constant source of joy and happiness. God be with you Betty Jean.

Survivors include; her brother, Edward Shulmerich; daughter, Audrey Jean Atwood (Randy); son, John Atwood (Amanda); two granddaughters, Natalie Ann Jergins and Lacey Marie Jergins; two great grandchildren, Aleesha Nicole Dragoman and Dylan James Dragoman; in-laws, Hollis and Wanda Keith, and Tommy Atwood; and numerous nieces and nephews that she loved dearly. She was preceded in death by her husband James Audry Atwood; her mother Gertrude Schulmerich and her father Roy Schulmerich; and a brother, Norman Schulmerich.

Services will be held at Coltrin Mortuary and Crematory on Sunday, June 5, 2016 at 2 o’clock with Pastor Joe Martinez officiating. The family will visit with friends one hour prior to the services. Friends and family are encouraged to join the family to help celebrate Betty. The family asks that in lieu of flowers please make donations in Betty Jean Atwood’s name to Hands of Hope Hospice, 1379 E. 17th St., Idaho Falls, ID 83404.

Condolences may be sent to the family at ww.coltrinmortuary.com.