Betty Jo(e) Christensen Cook

Betty Jo(e) Christensen Cook passed away on October 7, 2026, at the age of 100. Born in Glenbar, Arizona, to Sarah Jane Butler and Victor Christensen, she was the fourth of thirteen children and grew up surrounded by family and love. She married Neldon Cook on July 17, 1945, and together they shared 66 wonderful years of marriage and raised four children: Gayle (Arman) Pace, Neldon Victor (Kathleen), William Ray (Cynthia), and Betty Jo Heath. Their family grew to include 16 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren, and currently 18 great-great-grandchildren. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Betty Jo dedicated her life to serving others through church leadership and education, most often called as president of stake and ward Relief Society, Primary, and Young Women’s organizations, primarily in the Glendale, Phoenix West, Pueblo Mesa, and Central Mesa Stakes. After earning her degree from Arizona State University, she enjoyed a fulfilling teaching career and served as a leader among fellow educators, spending seventeen years helping young students at Melvin E. Sine School (Unit IV) in Glendale, Arizona. Above all, Betty Jo cherished her faith and family, leaving a legacy of love, service, and devotion to the Lord Jesus Christ that will continue through generations. She is survived by her two youngest siblings, Joy Jones and James Edward Christensen, and a loving family who will forever treasure her memory.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, at the Mesa Central Stake Center, located at 925 N. Harris Street, Mesa, Arizona 85203. A viewing will begin at 9:00 a.m. in the Relief Society room, followed by funeral services at 10:00 a.m. The graveside dedication will take place at Mesa Cemetery immediately following the service. Flowers may be sent to Bunker's Garden Chapel.