Betty Joan Swenchak McCurdy, age 71, passed away June 23, 2011 in
Racine, WI.
She was born June 16, 1940 to John and Lilly Mae (Martin) Swenchak in
Laurel, MS.Growing up she worked at the family store, Martin’s Grocery
in Glade, MS.Betty spent her life graciously serving others.
She married Pascal Ted Johnston June 16, 1960.Betty, a mother of 4, put
family ahead of career.She loved having her children and their friends
running through the house and often said she missed the chaos when the
kids had grown and moved away.Betty was the master of “comfort food” and
everyone was welcome at her dinner table.
Later in life Betty was blessed when she met Morris (Mac) McCurdy.They
were married April 17, 1992. Mac and Betty were soul mates sharing life,
love, and adventure together.Their love and devotion was witnessed by
all who knew them.
Betty and Mac lived in Kingman, AZ along side her best friends of 30+
years, Darrell and Peggy Morgan.Betty and Peggy were more like sisters
than friends.The two were fun loving and created laughter and smiles
when they were together.Betty’s door was always open, and everyone was a
friend.The home was a place where life’s joys and sorrows were shared.
Betty loved to travel.She and Mac would drive across country to visit
family and friends.A three day trip would take five days because she
would say “It’s not about reaching the destination but the road you
travel to get there”.That’s how she approached life, enjoying the
journey without the distraction of the destination.
Along life’s road, Betty touched many people.Her open heart, positive
attitude and southern accent left an impression on those who met her.
She was everyone’s “Granny” and graciously shared her life and love with
those around her.Celebrate knowing Betty; laugh often, love openly,
enjoy the journey.She wouldn’t want it any other way.
Betty leaves behind devoted husband Morris McCurdy, sons Pascal T.
(Judy) and Preston T. (Jerri) Johnston, daughter Becky J. Johnston, step
daughters Kim (Tony) Dennison and Sabrina (Dan) Redenius, 10
grandchildren Adrian L., Nicholas A.(Karen), Christopher R., Amber E.,
Jordan T, Jarred C., Portia T.(LCpl Benjamin Peterson), Miranda M.
Johnston, Marcus J. Clas, and Melissa Mayes, 5 great grandchildren
Lexus, Colin, Levi, Preston J , and Brooklyn Johnston.
Julie says
You’ll be missed, Mom, but you already knew that. I will never forget you. You lit up the world. Please put in a good word for me, so I can see you again.
With all my love.
karen johnston says
you will always be in our hearts!!!!!! we love you !!!!!!! xoxoxo
Adriane Johnston says
Grandma, I will always love you! I will never forget you and all the precious times we shared. You will always hold a special place in my heat, I love you always and forever RIP Grandma Betty
Christopher Johnston says
Grandma I wonder where you keep your wings. Are they hung in your closet with the rest of your things? Do you put them away and just use them at night or give them to Rosie to polish up bright. I know you have wings, for this must be true, 'cause God always gives them to Angels just like you.