Betty Jean Skelton

Betty Jean Skelton, born on March 29, 1942 in South Bend, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on December 17, 2024, at 7:35 p.m. at IU Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie, Indiana. Betty spent her early years in Lydick, Indiana, before moving to Mishawaka, where she graduated from Mishawaka High School. 

She dedicated much of her career to serving her community as a dispatcher for both the St. Joseph County Police Department and the South Bend Police Department. Later in life, Betty worked in various customer service roles in her community, where her cheerful presence was appreciated by many. Betty was happiest when she could showcase her artistic flair creating floral arrangements for different companies in the South Bend Area. 

Always a green thumb, Betty found peace and joy in nurturing plants, flowers and gardening. She also enjoyed crocheting, cooking and being artistically creative with different mediums. Betty loved animals and had many beloved pets throughout her life. 

She is survived by her daughters, Suzanne Skelton of Las Vegas, Nevada; Sheryll Enright of Mishawaka, Indiana; Sara Masterson of South Bend, Indiana; Stacey Chrzan (Danny) of Niles, Michigan; Niece, Brandice Cooper of Mishawaka, Indiana. Betty was a proud grandmother to Zackery Condon, Elijah Skelton, Lucy Chrzan and Giorgia Chrzan. 

Betty was preceded in death by her father, Ralph Cooper; her mother, Lillie Praklet; and her brother, Keith Cooper.

Cremation services are being handled by Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service of New Castle, Indiana. 

A celebration of life will be held later to honor her memory and the love she shared with those around her.May Betty’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.