Betty Jean Shegog Martin

Betty Jean Shegog Martin was born on August 17, 1943 in Heth, Arkansas to her parents, Dudley Shegog, Sr. and Johnnie Mae Shegog-Jenkins. As a young girl, Betty's family moved to the south suburban area of Chicago, Illinois, where she attended Cottage Grove Elementary School. At the age of 15, Betty was baptized at Cole Temple Church of God in Christ located in Ford Heights, IL (formerly called East Chicago Heights, IL). She continued her faith and worship at Christ Everlasting Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, IL for over three decades until her death. She enjoyed attending Sunday school, singing in the choir and fellowshipping with her Order of Eastern Star sisters. Betty is a long-time native of Chicago and an avid Bulls and White Sox fan. She graduated from Englewood High School in 1962. She completed her undergraduate studies at Wilson Community College, which was later renamed Kennedy-King College. She was also a member of the Cyclones Bowling Team. On August 7, 1967, she married Jerry L. Martin, Sr. She was a hard worker who remained employed at the Chicago City Bank until her accident in 1997, which left her disabled. With the love of her two children LaQuanna and Jerry combined with the grace of God, she overcame her illness and led a very productive life. She generously shared her life raising her niece, Shiquita Williams, and two grandsons, DéMichael Shegog and Romero Ross. Betty was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2006. Despite the limitations, she found great joy in her Faith and being surrounded by her family and friends. She always enjoyed being around her loved ones. On June 22, 2012 Betty closed her eyes in death. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dudley Shegog, Sr. and Johnnie Mae Shegog-Jenkins; one son, LeGene (Corky) Martin; siblings, Tearine, Ira, Van, Delvin, Lynette and Joyce. Her family and friends are experiencing sincere sorrow. She leaves in especial mourning her eldest and only daughter, LaQuanna Shegog; son, Jerry Martin Jr. (Cynthia); siblings, Dudley Jr., Roosevelt, Clarence (Brenda), Walter, Scipio, Bruce, Orlando (Chrystal), Henri Mae, Sadie Bell, Sherry Ann, Cleo (Robert), Eleanor, Michelle and Shellrita; her grandchildren, DéMichael, Shauntelle, Shayla, Jamerria, Shane, Taurean, Romero and Kayla; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

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Betty Jean Shegog Martin

August 17, 1943 - June 22, 2012