Byron resident Betty Jane Benn passed away on Thursday, Nov. 17, 2011. She touched many lives with her gentle spirit and generosity.

Betty was born to Orland and Mabel Dutro in San Leandro. She grew up in Byron and Brentwood, graduating from Liberty Union High School.

Betty was married for 36 years to the love of her life, Samuel Fletcher Benn, who passed away in 1979.

Betty was a homemaker for most of her married life, but also helped her husband as a bookkeeper for his business, Camino Mobile Home Sales, in Byron. She was a very creative, talented and gifted seamstress and created many beautiful wedding gowns and dresses for bridesmaids in the Brentwood area. She owned The Knit and Stitch Shop on Oak Street in downtown Brentwood for many years. She also used her creativity and talent to make hand-knitted sweaters, hats, scarves, blankets, Barbie Doll outfits, baby doll clothes and baby booties for family members.

Betty was a beautiful woman inside and out – sweet, generous, kind, thoughtful and loving. As a mother and grandmother, she always expressed her love and appreciation for her family, which was the best gift she could have given any of them.

Betty is survived by her devoted daughter Carol Ligon, and husband James, of Brentwood; devoted daughter Peggy Kelch and husband Ron, of Antioch; five grandchildren: Dana Beeckman and husband Kenny; Deborah Mendes and husband Robert; Robert Ligon and wife Julie; Lisa Duncan; Sheryl Ligon; and seven great-grandchildren: Izzy and Cole Beeckman; Bree, Charlotte, and Fletcher Ligon; Skylar and Karyss Mendes; and Laci Gonsalves.

Betty was greatly loved by her family, and her generous loving spirit will be missed by everyone who knew her.