BORN

1928

DIED

2012

FUNERAL HOME

Gerber Chapel

23 W Lockwood Ave

Webster Groves, Missouri

Betty McCaskill Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 30, 2012.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - Betty Anne Ward McCaskill, the mother of Missouri Sen. Claire McCaskill and a political trailblazer in her own right, died Monday at her home in St. Louis after a long struggle with heart and kidney problems, the senator said.

The first-term Democratic senator, who is locked in a close re-election race with Republican Rep. Todd Akin, had canceled most of her campaign events starting last week to spend time with her 84-year-old mother. She said Saturday that her mother suffered from acute cardio-renal failure and had lost consciousness at several points in recent days.

"For some time, Mom's health has not been good, and our family takes comfort that she is now at rest," McCaskill said in a statement announcing her mother's death. "We were incredibly lucky to have a mother like her, a woman of great intellect and strength, who loved and nurtured, challenged and pushed, and was always there with wise counsel and great humor."

Long before her daughter entered Missouri politics, Betty Anne McCaskill had made her own mark in Democratic circles. McCaskill has recalled how her mother sent her children out on Halloween in 1960 with the door-to-door message: "Trick or treat and vote for JFK," referring to the Democratic presidential candidate, John F. Kennedy.

In 1970, she was appointed to the Missouri Commission on the Status of Women, which evaluated the opportunities for women in Missouri government, education and business. The next year, she became the first women elected to the Columbia, Mo., City Council. She also once served as president for the trustees of William Woods University in Fulton, her alma mater.

She ran unsuccessfully for the state House in 1978 against Republican Leroy Blunt, whose son Roy Blunt now serves as Missouri's other U.S. senator. She later began a career as a financial consultant for Waddell and Reed in Kansas City, after her husband, Bill, became ill.

In 2004, she helped her daughter's unsuccessful bid for governor by providing personal testimonies about the rising cost of medical care. She said at the time that her list of medicines had been steadily growing to the point that her costs far exceed her annual prescription drug coverage through private insurance.

During McCaskill's 2006 Senate campaign, her mother traveled around the state with her in an RV, appealing in particular to rural voters and seniors as she discussed the need to close coverage gaps in the Medicare prescription benefits. For this campaign, she recorded a video displayed on McCaskill's campaign website expressing her pride about the sentor's work trying to straighten out mismanagement of veterans' burial sites at Arlington National Cemetery.

The Senate race between McCaskill and Akin has been in the national spotlight since Akin remarked in mid-August that women's bodies have ways of avoiding pregnancy in "legitimate rape." Although he apoligized, McCaskill has highlighted the comment to portray Akin as an extremist and out of touch with women's issues. The Missouri Senate is one of several that could help determine party control of the U.S. Senate.

Akin expressed condolences in a written statement in which he said, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole McCaskill family right now."

In addition to Claire McCaskill, Betty Anne McCaskill is survived by two other daughters, Anne Moroh and Lisa Finn; one son, Will McCaskill; six grandchildren; along with step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate her life on Sunday, November 4 at 3 p.m. at the Sheldon Concert Hall, 3648 Washington Boulevard, Saint Louis, MO 63108.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests a contribution to the Betty Anne McCaskill Scholarship Fund, 109 Reynolds Alumni Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Betty McCaskill

What is your first memory of Betty?

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Not sure what to say?

November 7, 2012

Faith Tobin

Dear MCCASKILL Family/Claire hello there my name is Faith Tobin./number one congrats on your'e win./number 2 my condolences's to your'e Family of loosing your'e mom.she seems like a nice lady.my email is [email protected],Faith

November 5, 2012

debbie fellenz

senator-so sorry about your mom. some of us were lucky enough to have a mom while others just had a mother. hopefully she'll be looking down at your victory party tuesdsay night.

November 5, 2012

senator-so sorry about your mom, sounds like she was a nice lady. hopefully she'll be looking down at your victory party tuesdy night!
debbie fellenz st. louis

November 5, 2012

Jackie Clevenger

Dear Family of Betty McCaskill - so very sad to hear of the death of my friend, Betty. I became acquainted with her through her work at Waddell & Reed and valued her insight and wisdom. My visits with her were always sprinkled with laughter -- and news about Claire and her work as well. You have my prayers as you grieve the loss of this beautiful woman, mother, grandmother and friend.

November 4, 2012

So sorry to hear of your mother's passing hope you can find comfort in knowing that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Bernice Staffelbach

November 1, 2012

Lorri Shurtleff

I remember Betty and I know how proud she was of you. My prayers are with you

November 1, 2012

I'm sorry for your loss. My mother, age 90, died Oct. 25. I understand. You've made her proud, I'm sure.
Diane Shuey
Bridgeton

November 1, 2012

What an amazing woman she must have been! It is so hard to see a strong woman like her go through a gradually debilitating end. I have seen that with my own family members. My sympathy and best wishes to you all.

November 1, 2012

To the Mccaskill family,so sorry to hear of your grief.May God give you peace and deal with you in kindness......~d.m.~

November 1, 2012

Gale Banks

Her spirit abides within you...carry on with that spirit and dignity. God blessings, always.

November 1, 2012

Joan Euceda

Please accept our condolences to Betty Anne Ward McCaskiill's family at this time. God bless you all.

November 1, 2012

Mary Kay and Denny Blair

To the McCaskill Family:
We're sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

November 1, 2012

Barb

With deepest sympathy to family and friends and may you find comfort in Gods inspired word the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16).

November 1, 2012

Cg

MCcaskill family may you find comfort in knowing that Almighty God indefinitely lasting arms unfailingly support us in all our tribulaitons. Deut. 33:27. I am sorry for your loss.

October 31, 2012

C. Bievenue

So sorry for your loss. We follow your campaign and know your Mom was probably your biggest supporter. Our prayers are with your family Claire. Gods speed!

October 31, 2012

Joyce Davis

My thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of distress.

October 31, 2012

Mary Jane Stone

She showed the way as a great woman Democrat and contributed in so many ways. Condolences to this great woman's equally great family and to Sen. McCaskill-Victory!

October 31, 2012

Your Friends at Texas County Memorial Hospital

Senator McCaskill, Lisa, Ann, Will & family--Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.

October 31, 2012

S.K.B.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

October 31, 2012

JHJ

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

October 31, 2012

TERRY

I'm so sorry for your loss Claire.

October 31, 2012

Ron & Donna Brasfield

There are no words that can take away the pain of losing your beloved mother. Please know that you are in our thoughts at this difficult time.

October 31, 2012

Cheryl Polk

Senator McCaskill our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, remember the good times they last forever.

October 31, 2012

T B

My thoughts and prayers are with the senator and her family.

October 31, 2012

Janice

My sincere condolences on the loss of your mother

October 31, 2012

DJ

My Condolences to the McCaskill family. Betty certainly was a tireless worker, and supported her family. May the God of Loving-kindness and comfort be with your family. Psalm 119;50,76

October 31, 2012

Annie I.

My heart goes out to you all at this time of deep sorrow. May the Father of tender mercies help you to cope with the loss of your dear loved one.

October 31, 2012

We send out heartfelt condolences to the McCaskill family.Draw close to God during this difficult time and he will draw close to you...James 4:8.

October 31, 2012

Randy & Jennie Garrett & Family

Sen. McCaskill, We are so sorry for the loss of your mother during this stressful time in your life.Our mother died less than a year ago and the pain can be unbearable, but God will pull you and your family through. Know this you are not alone. God Bless, She's In GODS Hand! Our prayers are with you and your family.

October 31, 2012

vickie stevens

Sorry ro hear about your loss. Your family
is in my prayers.

October 31, 2012

To the the family of Betty Anne McCaskill - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that she will be missed by many.

October 31, 2012

lEdna Rosenberger

Sincere condolances to her famoly

October 30, 2012

carrie/jerry reed

you have our condolences. we are sorry to hear about your mother.i am sure she will be with you through your campaign an dwill guide you through her new life.carrie and jerry reed house springs,mo

October 30, 2012

Laura McCaskill

Betty Anne was a trailblazer and her efforts have allowed other women's voices to be heard as she always stood up for what she believed. A great lady who will be so missed...

October 30, 2012

Holly Davis

It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

October 30, 2012

Bill Kliethermes

Claire, I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your mother, Betty. She was quite a lady; someone who I greatly respected, smart with always a quick laugh. I have many fond memories of your mom and dad. You have my deepest symphony.

October 30, 2012

Larry and Lisa Peterson

Our thoughts and prayers are with Senator McCaskill and her family at this time

October 30, 2012

Carol and Dwight Dolan

Claire, My husband, Dwight Dolan attended Lebanon High with your Mom. We've missed seeing her at the reunions.
God Bless You and Your Family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Betty Anne was an amazing lady! It was an honor to have known her. Carolyn and Dwight Dolan

October 30, 2012

Mary Green

October 30, 2012

My heartfelt condolences to Claire and her family. Your mother was a remarkable woman and will be truly missed. I'm sure she will continue to support you in all aspects of your life and shower you with her love.
Teri Schneider and family (Blue Springs, MO)

October 30, 2012

My sincere sympathy to the MCCaskill family. May God give you comfort in your time of grief, Psalms 55:22.
Jem. Florida

October 30, 2012

Ray Allen

Sympathy & kindest regards to the McCaskill family & friends wherever they may be. God bless 1 & all. Take care

October 30, 2012

Mary O'Brien

Your mother, Betty was indeed a bright
light; a pioneer for truth and justice. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

October 30, 2012

Rose Brooks

So sorry for your loss. Thank you for you delightful way of teaching about life. Rest in Peace.

October 30, 2012

Sherry Curl

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

October 30, 2012

Patti Claxton

Dear Senator McCaskill and Family:
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

October 30, 2012

Condolences to you Senator Mccaskill and all your family on
the loss of your Mother, may God bless.
Ron & Jo Amoroso
San Mateo, California

October 30, 2012

Maryanne Schubert

My sincere condolences to Ms. McCaskill and your entire family. I did not know your Mother but knowing she raised such a caring and resourceful family, her inheritance lives on in you all. God bless you.

October 30, 2012

Claire and family,

Betty was so very proud of all of you, and she carried that pride in her engaging smile, her support of your work and her devoted love to her family.

I know how much you will miss her each day. But I also know that her spiriti will continue to give you courage, strength and resolve to help your fellow citizens each day.

Love you much.

Mike and Gracia Backer

October 30, 2012

May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of sorrow. " Those who die God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes." (Psalms 116:15)

October 30, 2012

Barb

May God bless and comfort all in the Mccaskill family,as you celebrate your mother's life. Her suffering is no more, and she is now in God's care in eternal life.B

October 30, 2012

The Long and Williams Family

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

October 30, 2012

Bill Anderson

Dear Senator McCaskill,
My deepest condolences to you on the loss of your mother.
America has lost another citizen of the greatest generation.
She is a beauty, both inside and out.
Our Lord will grant her eternal peace and love.

October 30, 2012

Peggy Nichols

Thoughts and Prayers to the Mccaskill Family.

October 30, 2012

Jackie Young

Thoughts and prayers are with the McCaskill family.

October 30, 2012

Conna Boenker

I'm so sorry for your loss.

October 30, 2012

Linda

A word of comfort in your difficult time. May good memories provide solace
for your family during this challenging time;
and may God provide you with the assurance that you will see
your loved one again in Paradise. John 17:3

October 30, 2012

Bill Young

My condolences and sympathies to you and your family for your loss. May God keep you and comfort you.

October 30, 2012

Cindy Baumann

Senator McCaskill & family, I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother must have been a wonderful lady.

October 30, 2012

Helen Kirven

So sorry for your loss. God bless.

October 29, 2012

Priscilla Staples

Dear Sen. McCaskill,
Blessing and prayers for you and your family . So sorry for your loss. Strength and love to you.

Showing 1 - 61 of 61 results

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