Betty Joanne Clough

Betty Joanne (Denton) Clough, born April 11, 1938, in Pena, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and service. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, Joanne’s life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to family, community, and her faith in Jesus Christ.

Joanne was the daughter of the late Bessie Mae (Dean) Denton and William Gilbert Denton, and sister to the late Barbra Lee (Denton) Nulisch. On September 27, 1957, in Dallas, Texas, she married her beloved husband, Joseph George Clough, who preceded her in death. Together, they built a life rooted in love and ministry, serving as a pastor’s wife in a small community and hosting countless in-home Bible studies. Joanne’s faith, ignited during her high school years, remained the cornerstone of her life, as she continued to study the Bible with passion and dedication.

A 1956 graduate of South Oak Cliff High School in Dallas, Joanne was an accomplished musician, earning first chair alto saxophone in both the marching and concert bands. Her love for music was matched only by her love for animals, as she welcomed many pets into her home over the years, each one cherished as part of her family.

Joanne’s professional life was marked by her caring spirit. She worked at Western Union, Sears & Roebuck, and the Mansfield School District, where she found her true calling driving a special needs bus. Her compassion and dedication earned her numerous certificates and awards, reflecting the profound impact she had on the lives of the children she served.

Joanne’s journey took her across the country, from Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky to San Diego, California; Odessa, Dallas, and Mansfield, Texas; and finally Lakewood, Colorado. In her final months, she was surrounded by the love of her daughter, Toni Lynn Green, and son-in-law, Robert Dallas Green, in Colorado. She cherished her last holidays with visiting family and friends, creating memories that will endure.

Joanne was preceded in death by her son, Joseph Gilbert Clough. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Toni Lynn and Robert Dallas Green; daughters-in-law, Darla Standfield and Crystal Ireland Clough; grandchildren, James Jeremy Green, Brandi Michelle (Neie) Green, Joseph Charles Clough, Julie Rene Clough, Erin Michelle (Green) Bradley and Heath Jason Bradley, William Lee Riley Clough and Laura Lawler; great-grandchildren, Jayce Addison (Wear-Clough) Shelby, Jayden Shelby, James Matthew Green, Ella Grace Green, Rhyland Lawler, Joshua Sloan Bradley, Hannah Avery Bradley, Chesney Sartor Clough, Emmersyn Clough, and Landon Clough; and great-great-grandchild, Wayne Daniel Shelby.

Betty Joanne Clough’s life was a tapestry of love, faith, and service, woven with care for her family, her community, and the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who knew her.