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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION IN HONOR OF BETTY JO SWANSON
(January 22, 1943 - JANUARY 22, 2023)
WHEREAS, Betty Jo Swanson was born on January 22, 1943, in Bradley, Arkansas, and was the seventh of nine children born to James Henry Fagan and Katie Mae Fagan; and
WHEREAS, Betty Jo was the youngest girl of her family and was fiercely protective and affectionate towards her siblings, often serving as their second mother and confidant during their formative years; and
WHEREAS, Betty Jo moved to Texarkana, Texas, during her early childhood years before relocating to Chicago, Illinois, in 1955, where she attended and graduated from Parker High School in 1961; and
WHEREAS, after graduation, Betty Jo devoted her life to Christ and became a member of New Friendship Baptist Church, where she served faithfully for many years; and
WHEREAS, , in 1966, Betty Jo embarked on a new chapter of her life, marrying the love of her life, John L. Swanson. Together, they nurtured and raised two beautiful children, Barry and Jodi. Her children were the center of her universe, and she loved and spoiled them unconditionally, a testament to her boundless love and devotion; and
WHEREAS, Betty Jo embarked on her professional journey as a key-punch operator in 1966. Her exceptional skills and dedication led to a swift promotion to Key-punch Supervisor. Her influence was so profound she convinced three of her siblings to join her in the workforce, a testament to her leadership and persuasive abilities; and
WHEREAS, Betty Jo began working for the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad in 1976, where she gained many lifelong friends and colleagues. Betty Jo worked for Chicago & Northwestern Railroad for 27 years before retiring in June 2003; and
WHEREAS, after her retirement, Betty Jo redirected her energy towards serving her community. She assumed leadership roles in several organizations, including the 7900 Block of South Carpenter St. block club, serving as Block Club President for over 35 years; 006th District CAPS as Beat 612 Facilitator, the Neighborhood Housing Service as the founding board member and Board President, the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corp. as a board member and Vice-Chair, the City of Chicago 6th District Senior Subcommittee as Chair, and the City of Chicago 6th District Advisory Committee (DAC) as Chair. Betty Jo’s tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to these roles left an indelible mark on her community; and
NOW, THEREFORE, WE, BILL LOWRY, COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER OF THE 3rd DISTRICT, AND TONI PRECKWINKLE, PRESIDENT OF THE COOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONER, honor the life and legacy of Betty Jo Swanson, a devoted wife, mother, sister, and community servant, who dedicated her life to the betterment of her family and her community, and whose memory will live on in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved her.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, THAT THE MEMBERS OF THIS BODY, that we express our deepest condolences to her family and loved ones and offer our sincere gratitude for her many years of service to her community.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this Resolution be presented to the family of Betty Jo Swanson and loved ones and offer our sincere gratitude for her many years of service to her community.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED: a copy of this Resolution will be filed within the Office of Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry 3rd. District.
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