Betty J. (LaFon) Burkhardt, 92, of Lafayette, passed away Saturday, May 14, 2022, at IU Health Arnett Hospital where she had been a patient for 1 week.

She was born March 15, 1930, in Lafayette, to the late Bert and Thelma (Goss) LaFon. She was married June 26, 1948, to her best friend and love of her life, Earl L. Burkhardt at St. James Lutheran Church. Earl preceded her in death on February 9, 1999.

Betty attended Lafayette Schools and Lafayette Business College. She worked as a Supervisor in Fine Jewelry at L. S. Ayres for 36 years. Her knowledge in fine jewelry had many customers seek Betty out for assistance. If she was unavailable, they would always respond “I will come back when Betty is available.” She was one of the first people employed at L. S. Ayres in Market Square.

She was a very active member of St. James Lutheran Church. She held numerous offices in Altar Guild, Ladies Society and loved working for the church and Our Lord.

She was loved very much by her friends, family, and grandchildren. She had a heart of gold and would always see the good in everyone.

She is survived by her daughter, Robin (Mike) Max of Lafayette;4 grandchildren, Kenny Max, Ashley (Jordan) Hockema, Kristin (Billy) Dailey, and Kyle (Sarah) Burkhardt. She is also survived by her great-grandchilden, Ava Max, Hailey Hockema, and Bryce Dailey, whom she loved with all of her heart and enjoyed their antics and sense of humor. Also, great-grandchildren, Chase Burkhardt, Darian Asay and Kobee Tait Howlett who live in Wyoming and were able to visit her in Indiana. She is also survived by 3 great-great grandchildren that also live in Wyoming.

Along with her husband, Earl, and parents, Bert and Thelma, she was preceded in death by 2 children, Tom and Frank Burkhardt; and 2 brothers, William and Robert LaFon; and sister, Barbara Yeager.

Memorial contributions in Betty’s name may be given to St. James Lutheran Church.

Visitation will be from 12:00 pm (noon) until time of service at 1:00 pm, Thursday, May 19, 2022, at St. James Lutheran Church, 800 Cincinnati St., Lafayette, IN 47901 with Pastor David French officiating.

Interment will follow at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens in West Lafayette.