Betty Lou Cushing

Betty Lou (Wessel) Cushing, born June 30, 1940, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully on August 5th 2024 amongst family, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion. Betty Lou was the beloved daughter of Otto and Inez Wessel and grew up on a crop and cattle farm alongside her sister Karen and brother Richard. She cherished her early years, whether beautifying her and her sister’s bedroom with wallpaper or enjoying cousin parties and playful moments on the farm.

Betty Lou attended Dewey Elementary School in Idaho Falls; a historic one-room schoolhouse also attended by her father. She later graduated from Idaho Falls High School and began a diverse career, including roles as an administrative assistant at Westinghouse, an attendance clerk at Jackson Hole High School, a scan coordinator for various grocery stores her husband Kent managed, and a staff member at the Bruce Flora Accounting Firm.

On September 26, 1959, Betty Lou wed Kent Cushing, whom she first met in the cafeteria at Idaho Falls High School. What began with a simple dance invitation evolved into a lifelong, loving partnership. Throughout their journey together, Betty Lou and Kent enjoyed many adventures, from traveling the Caribbean and Hawaii to actively participating in a snowmobile club together. They also shared a passion for supporting their local baseball teams, as well as their children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, often seen cheering from the stands together.

Betty Lou’s greatest pride was her role as a mother to Brad and Craig, and later as a grandmother and great-grandmother. Her unwavering dedication to her family shone through in every aspect of her life, from the heartfelt birthday cards she wrote to the nourishing meals she prepared and the steadfast, unconditional love she gave to each child and grandchild. Her infectious smile and joyful giggle added warmth and happiness to every gathering, making each moment spent with her even more cherished.

She is survived by her loving husband Kent Cushing; her son Craig Cushing and his wife Kathryn Cushing; grandchildren Angila McCormack, Meghan Cushing, and Olivia Koski; her sister Karen Goldman and brother Richard Wessel; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. Betty Lou was preceded in death by her son Bradley Scott Cushing, her parents Inez and Otto Wessel, and her great-nephew Matt Hedrick.

A private graveside service for family and friends will be held at a later date at Rose Hill Cemetery, officiated by Pastor Stephen Weems from St. John Lutheran Church. Cremation has been handled by Buck-Murphy Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Promise Ridge Homeless Shelter for Women and Children in Idaho Falls. Donations can be sent to P.O. Box 51822 Idaho Falls, ID 83405 The family extends heartfelt thanks to The Gables of Idaho Falls, Eden Hospice, Endeavor Home Health in Mesa, AZ, for their exceptional care and support. Betty Lou’s memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.