Betty Josephine Jellinek

Betty Josephine Jellinek, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend passed away peacefully at home in Bismarck on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on October 29, 1956, in Valley Park, Missouri, Betty was the treasured daughter of Jesse Dawes and Irma Leota (Blair) Dawes.

Betty’s journey through life was marked by an overwhelming passion for community service and family. Together with her husband, John, she co-owned John's Tire Service in Caledonia, starting in 1983 and later relocating to Bismarck, where they continued their devoted service under the new name, Bismarck Tire. For an astounding 36 years, Betty and John poured their hearts into their work, becoming an integral part of the community they cherished.

In addition to managing the tire service, Betty devoted many years as the Director of the Bismarck Senior Center, where her compassion and dedication shone brightly. She took great pride in orchestrating Thanksgiving dinners at the senior center, ensuring that family was always included in this joyous celebration, creating lasting memories that her loved ones will forever hold dear.

Betty was a true joy to be around. She adored her family above all, finding great pleasure in spending time with her three children who remain to treasure her memory: Jennifer Jellinek, Sarah Radford (husband, Tom), and Danny Jellinek (wife, Julie). Her love extended abundantly to her six grandchildren—TJ Radford (wife, Kennedy), Chloe Radford, Mackenzie Jellinek, Jessie Radford, Natalie Jellinek, and Matthew Jellinek—along with her great-grandson, Xander Radford. Fishing trips with her grandchildren were moments she treasured dearly, filled with laughter and stories that would echo through generations. Betty will also be lovingly remembered by her two brothers, Jesse "Buddy" Dawes Jr. and Chuck Dawes (wife, Donna), along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. 

In addition to Betty's grandparents, she was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Jesse and Irma Leota Dawes, her cherished husband, Matthew John Jellinek, and her dear siblings: Polly Boyer, Danny Dawes, Kenny Dawes, Michael Dawes, and Irma Jean Bingaman.

A passionate advocate for her community, Betty not only contributed to the tire shop and the senior center but was also a co-founder of the Caledonia Fire Department. Her leadership extended to serving as past president of the ladies auxiliary and the Bismarck Fire Department Board, further illustrating her commitment to those around her.

Away from her work and community endeavors, Betty loved her horse, known affectionately as "Classy Sassy." Riding in the great outdoors brought her immense joy, reinforcing her love for nature and the peace it provided. She enjoyed the company of many, especially her extended family, friends, and the cherished visits from her community at the senior center.

Her legacy of love, compassion, and service to others will endure in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Betty legacy will continue to inspire, reminding us of the importance of family and community bonds that enrich our lives.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, at DeClue Funeral Home, 301 E High Street, Potosi, MO 63664. A funeral service will be held Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 11:00 AM, at DeClue Funeral Home. Pastor Carol Brown will be officiating her services. Interment and final prayers will follow at Jellinek ~ Dawes Family Cemetery, Bismarck, Missouri. Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to DeClue Funeral Home.