Obituary of Betty L Leeson

Betty Louise Bean Leeson was born on October 31, 1946, in Clarinda, Iowa to Harold and Mildred Bean. She passed away on August 20, 2024, at Edencrest at Beaverdale in Des Moines, Iowa after a 6-year stay.

Betty grew up in Clarinda and graduated from Clarinda High School, class of 1964. She went on to further her education in Minneapolis and became an x-ray lab technician. After completing her training in Minneapolis, she moved back to Clarinda and worked at the hospital, then at the Clarinda MHI.

Betty married Kenneth Richard (Rick) Leeson in November 1966, and to their union had two sons: Kenneth Robinson Leeson and Darin Edward Leeson. While married, they enjoyed dancing and camping as a family. Betty was a devoted mother, and with her and Rick's busy schedules, she made sure the boys made it to all their sports activities, especially their wrestling practices, which both boys excelled at. In 1989, Betty and Rick divorced, and a few years later, Betty moved to the Des Moines area a went to work for Mercy One Health Centers. She worked there for 18 years, retiring in 2009.

Betty loved to quilt, especially with her sister Peggy. They made so many beautiful quilts and gave them away; many of the family members have some. Betty had a love for music, and as a young girl, she was in the church choir. Betty was devoted to her family and loved her grandchildren and her little dog Marty, a little Shorkie (Shih Tzu – Yorkie mix). She was one of those people who was grateful for everything that was done or given to her; she always said, “Thank you” and never forgot your kindness.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Mildred Bean; her brother and sister-in-law, Ed (Linda) Bean; and her sister and brother-in-law, Peggy (Lyle) Edwards.

Left to cherish her memory are her boys, Rob Leeson and Ed Leeson; granddaughters Mia (Cole) Jacobs and Reneea Leeson; great-grandson Leyton Jacobs, sisters, Nancy (Steve) Bright and Sally (Gary) Beaudet, along with other aunts, uncles, and numerous beloved cousins.