Jean E. deBethizy

Jean E. deBethizy, 92, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025. Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Cedar Rapids is assisting the family.

Jean was born on October 30, 1932, in Washington, D.C., to John and Mary (Goodwin) Horton. At just 15 years old, she began working in her cousin’s dental office, Raymond Herndon, D.D.S. On February 12, 1950, Jean married Joseph M. deBethizy in Washington, D.C. Following their marriage, she initially stayed home to raise their children before resuming her career as a dental assistant, working alongside Dr. Herndon in Virginia and Dr. Thomas McCormick in Maryland. After retiring in 1988, Jean devoted her time to what she loved most - caring for her grandchildren as their nanny.

Jean greeted everyone with a smile and a hug, making each person feel valued and loved. Known for her quick wit, she had a way of bringing laughter into any room. While balancing a busy life, Jean raised five children while working in a dental office, yet somehow still moved with a brisk pace - whether at work, at home, or at the store. She had a giving heart and was always the first to lend a hand, whether helping to clean up after a gathering or assisting anyone in need. She moved in with Penny, caring for her children so Penny could continue working. Later, she lived with Holly and Clay, giving them peace of mind while they served their country, knowing their children were safe and secure in her care.

Survivors include her children, Joseph “Don” (Camilla) deBethizy of Copenhagen, Denmark, Mary “Holly” (Clay) Davis of Cedar Rapids, Donna (John) Byron of Rockville, Maryland, and Cynthia “Penny” (Curtis) Doss of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Kay deBethizy of Sharpsburg, Maryland; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Horton; husband, Joseph M. deBethizy; two brothers, Thomas Horton and Harvey Horton; one sister, Doris deBethizy; son, Gerald “Gary” deBethizy; grandson, Gerald “Gary” deBethizy II; and great-granddaughter, Alex deBethizy.