Betty Jane Hart

Betty Jane Hart, 85, of Topeka, passed away Monday, November 14 at Lexington Park Nursing Center.

She was born December 29, 1919 in St. Mary's, KS, the daughter of Clarence M. and Mary D. Witter Yocum.

She graduated from St. Mary's High School and attended Emporia State Teachers College where she earned her teaching certificate. She was an elementary music and physical education teacher in Paxico, Junction City and St. Mary's. She was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader in St. Mary's and was an accomplished singer at weddings and church services. She was an avid fan of sports of all kinds.

She married Everett M. Hart on September 26, 1942 in St. Mary's, Kansas. He preceded her in death on October 25, 2000.

Survivors include a son, Robert E. Hart; a daughter, Nancy L. Taylor and her husband Richard and a grandson, Douglas M. Taylor, all of Topeka.

Mrs. Hart will lie in state after 1:00 pm, Thursday, November 17 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel where the family will receive friends from 7:00 to 8:30 pm that evening.

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 am, Friday, November 18 at Penwell-Gabel's Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Countryside United Methodist Church, 3221 SW. Burlingame Rd., Topeka, Kansas 66611 or to The Capper Foundation, 3500 SW. 10th St., Topeka, Kansas 66604.

To leave a special message for the family online, please visit www.PenwellGabel.com.