Lucille Elizabeth (Smeding) "Betty" Askew

Lucille Elizabeth (Smeding) "Betty" Askew of Battle Creek, MI

Betty, age 95, died Sunday morning, April 5, 2020 at the Advantage Living Center, Battle Creek.

Betty, the daughter of Bernard and Clara (Piefer) Smeding, was born in Chicago, IL on December 20, 1924 and was a 1942 graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. She retired in 1982 after 31 years of faithful service as a secretary, first for 25 years at Post Cereals and the last six years at Kellogg Company. Betty had been a member of the Christian Science Church of Battle Creek; the Post 25 Year Club and the Y Center. She enjoyed music especially playing the organ.

Betty was united in marriage to Gayle Clayton Askew in Battle Creek on March 4, 1950 and he sadly preceded her in death on June 4, 2017. Surviving is her granddaughter, Lisa (Russell) Hawthorne of Battle Creek and two precious great grandchildren, Bradan and Lindsay Hawthorne. Betty was also preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Linda McCleod.

Due to the Health Crisis, private interment with her husband, Gayle has taken place at Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Betty's honor may be direct to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan, 2500 Watkins Road, Battle Creek, MI 49015. The Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek is assisting Betty's family.