Betty E. Capriola

Betty (Vowell) Capriola, 91, of Rockford, IL passed away peacefully on October 23, 2023, at Medina Nursing Center in Durand, IL. Betty was born in Abingdon, VA on November 4, 1931, to her parents, Louise Caroline Parks and George Roosevelt Vowell. Betty graduated from Cleveland High School in Abingdon, VA.

Betty enlisted in the United States Air Force and spent time at the Donaldson Air Force Base in Greenville, SC. She was in the 57th Communication Squadron, and was a Cryptographic Operator/ Decoder during the Korean War. Betty was brave and loved her country, being a woman during the 50’s and being in the Air Force was still not very common.

Following the Air Force, Betty held many different jobs throughout her career. She was a beauty operator for Modern Beauty Parlor, a service person at St. Rita’s Church, floor assistant/sales personnel for Bob’s Hardware, and a mail assistant at Sundstrand Corporation. When Betty wasn’t hard at work, keeping her home up to par or raising her large family, she enjoyed golfing, bowling, shopping, cooking, crafts, reading, but most of all she adored spending time with her "sweetheart" kitty, Gracie. She also, very much, loved spending time with her whole family - especially during the holidays and special occasions.

Betty is survived by her children, Lynn (Bill) Webb, Debra (Bob Cholke) Capriola, Mark, Mike, and John Capriola; and her beloved kitty, Gracie; sisters, Maidie Kelly, Nancy Abel and Linda Archer; several adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her parents; grandson, Barry Falzone; sisters, Irene Anderson and Wilma Kate Vowell; brother, George Vowell, Jr.; niece, Eva Lou Bailey; nephew, Carson Bailey.

With sincere appreciation and gratitude, the Capriola family thanks OSF In-home Care, PEAK Medical Home Care, Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging, OSF Hospice, Medina Nursing Center, and the US-VA.

Betty's wishes were for a private family service. In lieu of flowers, any donations in Betty's honor, should anyone feel compelled, please send to Lisa’s Little Rescue, 4081 Saint John Drive, Rockford, IL 61102.

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