Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Jovich, age 88, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 28th from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, MO. Graveside services will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville, MO.
Born on February 1, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, Betty grew up in a lively household as one of seven children. Her early years in Chicago shaped her into the strong, compassionate, and hardworking woman that so many came to love.
On September 11, 1955, Betty married the love of her life, Milton (Poppo) Jovich, who fell instantly in love with her the moment he saw her at the café where she worked. Together they built a beautiful life and home, raising two daughters, Michelle (Mitzi) Smith and Therese Jovich.
Betty’s greatest joy was caring for her family. She had an incredible gift for making a house feel like a home — always warm, safe, and filled with love. She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures: quilting, estate sale shopping, baking bread, floral arranging, “bumming around,” cleaning, and of course, doing laundry. Above all, she loved spending time with her family and helping others whenever she could. She was someone who always showed up — a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend who could be counted on in every season of life.
She will be remembered as a strong, inspiring woman and the proud matriarch of her family — a steady source of love, laughter, and wisdom.
Betty was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Lou and Mary Nagy, and her siblings Mary Lou, Marge, Grace, and Lou. She is survived by her cherished siblings Jackie and Bob, her daughters Michelle (Mitzi) Smith and Therese Jovich, five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, who will continue to carry her love and legacy forward.
Her family will forever be grateful for the beautiful life she shared with them — full of kindness, humor, strength, and heart.
Obituary submitted by the family
Arrangements by Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, Missouri