Betty was born on October 16,1929, outside of Manhattan Kansas, to Charley and Alys Wilson. She spent her early years on the family farm and was home-schooled until the first grade. She then attended Brigg’s School, a one-room country schoolhouse, through the sixth grade before completing her education in Wheaton, Kansas. A dedicated and determined student, Betty graduated high school at just 16 years old and went on to put herself through college at Kansas State University. In 1950, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Home Economics Education.
Betty began her career as a teacher in Miltonvale, Kansas, where she taught Home Economics before continuing her teaching career in Westminster, Colorado. Later in life she transitioned into a second career at Mountain Vista Nursing Home where she worked as a bookkeeper before moving into receptionist and social work roles. Even after her official retirement, Betty remained active in part-time and volunteer roles well into her seventies.
On August 17,1952, Betty married Donald Bottom, with whom she built a loving family.
Betty lived a full and vibrant life enriched by her many passions. She loved spending time with family and was an active member of various social clubs- especially enjoying her time with the “Red Hats“ group. She found joy in sewing, cooking, quilting, reading, playing Bridge, hosting foreign exchange students, writing letters to her many pen pals and cheering on the Kansas State Wildcats.
A woman of deep faith from an early age, Betty placed her faith in Jesus and lived out her beliefs by serving others. She had a gift of encouraging people with scripture and thoughtful words and was known for being a faithful woman of prayer. She really enjoyed receiving and writing letters to her sponsored Compassion child.
Betty’s legacy of kindness, faithfulness, and strength will continue to inspire those who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to all who loved her.