Betty Jane Schmidt Kleffman

1935-2017

Betty Jane Schmidt Kleffman, 81, died Tuesday at her home.

Born 1935 in Chicago, she was the daughter of the late Minnie and Otto Schmidt. She was buried Wednesday on her farm, Pana Sea Ranch, beside her husband Ken, who died in June.

Betty earned certification as a Registered Nurse from West Suburban School of Nursing and continued her career through age 80. After moving to Casey County in 1972, she worked at Ephraim McDowell, Centre College, McDowell Home Health and Lifeline in Liberty, as well as serving as a private nurse for several families.

The attributes that make an exceptional nurse —caring, gentleness, sympathy, tenderness, a kind heart — were also hallmarks of her personal life. She did not have to cultivate these gifts as they were hers to give naturally and she was generous to all, genuine at her core.

Survivors include her children, Todd and Sue, Thad, Troy and Tara and Eddie, all of Middleburg, and Tori and Betsy of Carrollton, Georgia; 10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a great host of family and friends who have been warmed by her presence throughout her years.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Middleburg Methodist Church, followed by a potluck lunch. All are welcome.