Betty Jo Smith Nock, 94

Betty Jo Smith Nock, 94, left this world Monday evening, Feb. 20, 2017, with her daughters, Royann, Elaine and Carole by her side.

Betty Jo was born in Sullivan County Missouri to Laura and John Smith. One year later Betty was joined by her younger sister Virginia Ann. The family moved to Denver when Betty Jo was 4 years old. She completed her education, graduating from North High School in Denver.

She married Roy Nock in 1941 and was part of the “greatest generation” during World War II.

Betty Jo received “Jesus Christ as her Savior” and was baptized at the age of 12. Betty Jo loved the lord, his church and fellow followers of Christ. She was a life-long learner, applying herself to bible study and reading. Her love of good books remained all 94 years of her life. She was distressed when her eyesight began to fail and reading was no longer an option but Betty persisted and spent many hours listening to books on tape.

Betty and Roy made their home in Denver until they moved to Montana in 1964. Having been a working cowboy’s wife following the war years it was nothing new to live on their small farm with horses, cattle and other creatures. She recalled one horse named Prince who she said was “a really good horse.” which was quite an admission as she wasn’t as generous in describing all the other horses.

Betty and Roy sold their farm near Whitefish and moved to a home in the Northridge area of Kalispell in 1978. As empty nesters mom and dad entertained their friends from Bethel Baptist Church and the community, with mom keeping notes of recipes, dates of events and guests in attendance.

After Roy passed away in 2010, Betty Jo moved to Buffalo Hills Terrace in 2011. Betty greatly appreciated the staff who took good care of her during her final years.

Betty Jo is survived by three daughters, Royann (Norb) Cygan of Castle Pines, Colorado, Elaine Nock of Beaverton, Oregon, and Carole (Jon) Poe of Billings. She is also survived by a son, Gary (Dawn) Nock of Ephrata, Washington. Betty is also survived by eight grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

Interment has been held at Conrad Cemetery.

To send a note of condolence to the family please visit www.buffalohillfh.com,. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.