Betty J. Leeson, 94, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away Jan. 7, 2024.
Betty was born June 29, 1929, in Elkhorn, the daughter of Louis and Sophie (Bohte) Plautz; graduate of Elkhorn High School and Lawrence University, Appleton with a Bachelor’s degree in 1951.
Betty married James L. Leeson on June 30, 1951. He predeceased her on February 21, 1989. She worked as an adjunct faculty member at Rockford College. Betty was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, where she was a part of the Women’s Guild.
She also served on many office positions with the Mendelssohn Club, co-founder of the Flute Club of Rockford, and a member of Sigma Alpha Iota Alumnae Group.
Betty had a love for music. She was a flutist with the RSO for 25 years, leader of the Tiffany Ensembles, most notably “The Tiffany Trio.” played in many churches, Park District Band and many pick up groups. Betty was awarded “Star of Excellence” by Mendelssohn Club. She also enjoyed walking, hiking and traveling.
She is survived by her children, Jean Leeson, Ted (Betty Campbell) Leeson, and Greg (Cindy) Leeson; grandchildren, Ted (Alex) Archer, Dan (Danielle) Archer, and Meg (Dustin Helak) Archer; and two great-grandchildren.
She is predeceased by her parents; son, Mark Leeson; and brothers, Edward Plautz and Donald Plautz.
Memorial mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 2, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Rd., Rockford, Illinois. Visitation will be from 10 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Holy Family Catholic Church, Mendelssohn Club or charity of donor’s choice.
To share a memory or condolence, please visit olsonfh.com
