"Smart and beautiful" is how Betty Jo Allred is described by her brother whom she had lovingly nicknamed Rondelo. She had an innate class about her, always had a smile on her face and a kind word for anyone. She had the love of Jesus in her heart. Although times were hard growing up, her family always found time for fun, laughter and music, a fish-fry and a card game. Her parents instilled in her high moral standards and a giving heart which she proudly continued throughout her life. Betty Jo got her love of sewing from her mother, her skill demonstrated by the beautiful beaded and lace wedding dress made for her daughter, Melissa. As a young girl, her family moved to Maud, Oklahoma where she met the love of her life, Wayne Allred. He had decided at age 12 that he would marry her. By high school, the feelings were mutual. She even took up the saxophone so that she could go on band trips with him. She married Wayne at the young age of 17 and remained so for 50 years. They had many interests in common but mostly felt and shared an unbelievable love. Wayne was an only child and she instantly became the daughter his parents never had. She was always loving and kind to them, ultimately becoming the caregiver to each before their death. Betty Jo and Wayne came to California as a very young couple, she for a better life for her family, Wayne mostly for the weather. Joe and Sharon were born in Porterville. They then moved to Oakland to work in the cannery, then to Berkley where Betty Jo worked in the typing pool at Wards and Wayne went to school to become a telegrapher. Upon completion Wayne was hired by the Southern Pacific Railroad ultimately ending up in Salinas, where Melissa was born. She agreed to a short term job with the Southern Pacific Railroad which continued until her retirement 30 years later as she advanced from Chief Clerk to District Freight Agent. As finances improved, came the desire for improvement, Betty Jo pushed for the purchase of their own home, fulfilling this dream with the purchase of the house on Rochex Ave. They raised their family in this home for many wonderful years. She and Wayne joined Eastern Star where she excelled as Worthy Matron and made many life long friends. She was happiest when she was dressing up, making and wearing her formals as she waltzed along on the arm of the love of her life. They made a very handsome couple, turning heads wherever they went. As Wayne and Betty continued working, they were able to build their dream home out in the country off river road on Ranchito Del Rio Dr. She was so very proud of her home, she kept it pristine and the garden blooming with roses. She never failed to take an interest in her grandchildren. She considered Christmas a special time for the family she dearly loved. She would spend days decorating, cooking and baking. Her own health began to decline and in 2004 she moved to Summerville (renamed Emeritus). Her sweet and loving personality continued to shine as she became a beloved resident and enjoyed the activities. She passed peacefully away surrounded in love by her family. She was a beautiful, gracious lady who had a good word for everyone and was loved by all. She will be in our hearts forever!