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Cleve Chatterton

RaNae Green (Palmer)

THANKS TO JACKIE TAYLOR VOLYES FOR NOTIFYING US OF BILLY'S PASSING

OBITUARY FOR WILLIAM (BILLY) POWELL:

William Charles Powell, 82, of Pocatello, Idaho passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born October 25, 1943, in Pocatello, Idaho, William, known to many as Billy was the son of Maxine and Vernon Powell.  He grew up in Pocatello, attended Pocatello High School and studied at Idaho State University, forming lifelong friendships and deep ties to the community he always called home.

Billy built his life on hard work and integrity during a long career in retail.  He spent 31 years with Kmart Corporation in upper management, where he was respected for his leaderhip, steady presence, and friendy demeanor.  He led with fairness, humor and kindness, treating everyone with respect.

Above all, Billy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  He shared 36 wonderful years with his beloved wife, Ruby.  Together they built a life that began in California and ultimately brought them back to Idaho where they created a warm and welcoming home filled with family friends, and laughter.

Billy enjoyed fishing, golf, tennis, baking and canning, and was known for his quick wit and infectious sense of humor.  He loved time sent with family and friends, especially when it included good food and shared stories.

 He is survived by his wife Ruby, his sister, Sharon Simmons; his daughter Raelyn Stokes (Marcus); stepdaughter, Shelly Wilkerson (Dave), grandchildren, Vanessa (James), Cierra, and Taylor; and great-grandchildren Mason and Austin.

Billy will be remembered for his hard work, laughter and deep love for family and friends.  The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the hospice team who cared for Billy with compassion and dignity in his final days.

A Celebration of life will be held in the coming months to honor his life well lived.

RIP BILLY

Davis Katsilometes

I grew up with Billy and he was a good friend. RIP Billy. May your memory be eternal.

Gary Glenisky Class Of 62

Billy Powell  Those were the days.  We almost advanced from Salt Lake City to Santa Monica, California.

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Thanks to Davis Katsilometes and Gary Glenisky for your remarks and pictures of Billy Powell.  I sometimes wonder how many people are reading these posts.

I would encourage anyone to use these pages to remember a classmate or a memory of something you experienced in school etc.

Davis Katsilometes

Thanks Gary, Many fond memories of our days in Little League!

Jerry Lowe

Bill was voted the Cutest, great dancer, so-so golfer and a lifelong friend.  Greatest sense of humor and a legend of PHS. 

Miss him terribly. 

Cleve Chatterton

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Congratulations to Cleve and Judy Chatterton on 60 years of bliss.  Wishing you many more happy years.

RaNae Green (Palmer)

PASSING OF MICHAEL LEE PETTY

Wilks Funeral Home in Chubbuck posted the death of Mike as January 23, 2026, at the age of 82.  It said as information becomes available, they will post a complete obituary.

I worked with Mike at Associated Foods then at the UPRR.  Always a nice guy.

RIP Mike

Scott Bengoechea

I am saddened by the passing of so many of my class of 61 friends,  I still think of all of us as the Jocks, the Soc's, the Geeks and the Cruising bunch.  Don's Artic Circle to Fred and Kelly's, burning up that 32.9 cent gas.   I went to ISU with Billy Powell.  He was always Kool.  When he graduated and went to work at S.H. Kresge [KMart]  I thought that had to be the greatest job in the world. He started in Boise where I have spent most of my working years. In short, good friends, stop dropping out. Be Strong! Be Safe!  God, how I miss Buddy's!!!

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Thanks to Karen Twitchell Halford and Judy Williams Harris for alerting me about Darlene's passing.

OBITUARY FOR ADA DARLENE TWITCHELL WILSON

Ada "Darlene" Twitchell Wilson, 82, was born in Pocatello, Idaho, on August 13, 1943.  She peacefully passed away on January 9, 2026, in Pocatello, Idaho.

Darlene married the love of her life, Bruce, on March 30, 1963.   She spent many years working as a Union Rep in the 70's.  In her free time, she enjoyed bowling on several leagues and an ice-cold Coca-Cola.  She was well known for the delicious divinity she made.  In more recent years she loved spending time with her grandkids.

Darlene is survived by Michael Bruce Wilson (son), Sonya Wilson (daughter), Delynn Wilson (son), all of Pocatello, ID;  Renae Anderson (sister), Joy Willis (sister), Donna Kohler (sister), Maurice Twitchelll (brother), Sally Merrill (sister); Jan Martin (stepdaughter) Nic Knusden (stepson); Michael Steven Wilson (grandson), Tyler Wilson (grandson); 3 great-granddaughters; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by Bruce Wilson (husband), Maurice George Twitchell (father), Veda Mangum (mother), Stan Merrill (stepfather), Tiffinee Dawn Wilson (granddaughter), Vada Marlene Dye (sister), Stan Merrill (brother), and Linda Merrill Cruser (sister).

Funeral services were held on January 15, 2026, and burial was in the Restlawn cemetery in Pocatello, Idaho.

RIP DARLENE

RaNae Green (Palmer)

You know you are getting OLD when you start to lose 2 dear friends on the same day. 

Sondra Angel (not a classmate) from alzheimers

                          and

Beverly Youngren Hanes (classmate) (see next post) from Dementia and a stroke.

RaNae Green (Palmer)

DEATH OF BEVERLY YOUNGREN HANES

I received a call this evening from son Mark Hanes advising me that his mom, Beverly, passed away yesterday (on Valentines Day) February 14, 2026.

I have been trying to locate her for a couple of years to no avail.  He said she had dementia and then had a stroke.

Mark said they plan a Celebration of Life sometime this summer, so if they post an obituary, I will post it.

                                     * * * * * * * * * 

I didn't know Beverly in high school, but our husbands were friends, so we started doing things with them.  Beverly and Dave both came from different backgrounds than I, I was a naive, goody-two-shoes and their families were a lot of alcoholics.  Never having been around this, I was kind of amazed that they could go to work the next morning.  Beverly was the kind of friend you could just pop in to see at all hours of the day.  Any secrets were safe with her.  Her best quality was that she was the eternal optomist.  She would make bad choices then tell me how everything was going to be rosy.  

She and Dave got divorced and she quit her good job at Garrett Freight Lines to persue her dream of living in Monterey, CA.  She and her 3 little boys headed out, bald tires and all.  She hadn't done enough research on the cost of living there and couldn't make ends meet.  She decided she needed to remarry.  During a call she told me that she was sure that if she got a boob job that she could get another husband.  Not only was it a boob job, but also a tummy tuck.  Husband number two soon followed.  This marrage lasted about 6 months.  Next thing I heard was that Dave had moved it, but she insisted that it was strictly a platonic relationship.  This arrangement endured to the end.  In a letter she told me her rent was 1100.00 a month, but keep in mind this was early 80's.  In my mind I pictured a rambling palace.

Late 80's I had the good fortune to work a kidnapping case in Monterey.  The Command Post was set up on Fort Ord.  After work I could go see her, shop at Cannery Row and tour Carmel By The Sea.  I was shocked at the tiny house she was paying 1100.00 a month for, but could appreciate the beauty of the location.  

Her son told me she will be buried in the cemetery at Carmel By The Sea overlooking the Bay.  

Bev, may your view be eternal.  RIP my dear friend

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Thanks to Karen Halford for letting me know that LaRae Goodrich Smith had passed away.

OBITUARY FOR LA RAE GOODRICH SMITH

La Rae was born in 1943 and passed away in Idaho Falls, Idaho on January 10, 2026  She was married to classmate Larry Smith.  She had been in assisted living due to dementia.

Her full obituary was published on January 12, 2026 in the Post Register.  You can read the obituary there if you want to pay to read it.

REST IN PEACE LA RAE

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Thanks to Karen Halford for letting me know about the passing of Pam Young Sauer.

OBITUARY FOR PAM YOUNG SAUER

Pamela Young Sauer, 83, of Lewisville, Idaho, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on February 8, 2026, in Idaho Falls.

She was born in Sat Lake City, Utah, to William Arthur "Art" Young and Verle Baker.  Pamela was raised in Idaho, where she graduated from Pocatello High School in 1961, and later earned her degree from Idaho State University.

Following her graduation from ISU, she met Lee Edward Sauer.  They were married in 1965 and shared 56 years together before his passing in 2021.  Pamela was a devoted elementary school teacher who spent many years teaching 5th grade.   A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she and Lee served a mission together in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 2008.

Pamela enjoyed being her husband's fishing companion and spending time outdoors  She was a fan of BYU football and enjoyed quiet car rides through the countryside.  At home, she was known for making homemade bread and French toast for her family.

She is survived by her children, LeeAnn (Rick), Scott (Cammie), and Benjamin (Leilani); her 11 granchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; her sisters, Sally, Susan, and Rinda (Arlin); and her sisters-in-law, Nancy, Jeanine, Betty (Brooks), and Nyla (Victor).

She was preceded in death by her husband Lee, and her parents.

Funeral services were held on Saturday February 14, 2026 in the Lewisville LDS church.  Interment was in the Grant Central Cemetery.

RIP Pam

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Thanks to Karen Halford for the information on Carol

OBITUARY FOR CAROL DAWN FRANCESCONI TOLMAN

Carol Dawn Francesconi Tolman, 82, passed away January 7, 2026 at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.

Carol was born February 26, 1943 to Gino and Dorothy Francesconi.  She attended and graduated from Pocatelo High School.

In 1959 she married the love of her life Robert Fell Tolman and continued to reside in Pocatello.  They were sealed in the Idaho Falls temple on June 6, 1964.  In 1987 they moved to Basalt, Idaho where Robert was Post Master and Carol worked for Thrifty Nickle want ads.

Robert and Carol loved to dance, and throughout their life, dance and music were always in their home.  They often taught dance for Church dance festivals.  Although she held many callings in the Church, these were her favorite callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  Carol was a devoted member of the Churdch and follower of Jesus Christ.

Family was the most important thing in Carol's life and she and Robert were blessed with seven children, 28 grandchildren, and 30 great-grandchildren.

Carol was always looking for a reason for the family to get together and celebrate.  Food was always at the center of the celebration and as soon as one was concluding she was always planning the menu for the next get together.  Her spaghetti was always a family favorite.  Carol will be missed on every camping trip, family Thanksgiving, Christmas party and birthday celebration.

Carol was preceeded in death by her father, mother, sister (Dorothy Jean Barrett) brother (Scott Francisconi) daughter (Debarah) and son (Joel).

She is survived by her husband Robert, and children Robert J., Shanna, Roger, Peter and Andrea.

The family would like to thank the ICU and 5th floor staff at EIEMC for their compassionate care.

Funeral was held January 16, 2026 at the LDS Stake Center in Firth and burial was in the Basalt Cemetery.  Nalder Funeral Home took care of arrangements.

RIP CAROL

RaNae Green (Palmer)

                      SAVE THE DATES 

50 PLUS CLASS REUNION

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2026

Red Lion in Pocatello

MORE INFORMATION TO FOLLOW

                             * * * * * * * * 

CLASS OF 61 SUMMER PICNIC

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

OK WARD PARK ON W QUINN IN POCATELLO

MORE INFORMATION TO FOLLOW

                                                                      * * * * * 

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Sondra Etheridge Frasure had a bad fall and is recouperating at Quinn Meadows.  We wish her a speedy recovery.

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Thanks to Del Taylor for furnishing the following information on Helen Olsen.

She was married to Frank Avila and passed away in Pocatello, Idaho on February 3, 2004.  The 'In Memory' page has been updated to reflect this information.

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Thanks to Jerry Lowe for notifying me of Elaine's passing.

OBITUARY FOR ELAINE COX JUDD

Elaine Judd was born on March 11, 1943 in Washington, D.C., to George and Hazel Cox.  She was the eldest of five children and a loving sister to Amy Jones, Kathy Collins, George Thomas Cox and Kim Cox.

Elaine was an exceptional student from a young age.  She graduated from Pocatello High School as a straight A student.  She was an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and demonstrated early talents in the arts.  She starred as the lead in her high school production of The Diary of Anne Frank and later performed as the nurse in Mutiny on the Bounty at Idaho State University.  She also participated in Readers Theatre at the June Conference held in the Tabernacle on Temple Square.  She enjoyed music and performance.  She took voice lessons with her sister Amy and often sang alongside her at local literary clubs and theatrical productions.  She was also involved in community swimming, competing in the 50- and 100-meter freestyle events and performing synchronized swimming with her sister Amy.  

Elaine was accepted to three prestigious women's liberal arts colleges - Vassar, Wellesey, and Smith - but chose to marry and devote her life to family.  She married Don Judd on May 5, 1961 and their marriage was sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple on June 20, 1962.  Together they raised five children:  Holly (Gary Glover), Mark (Kimberly Judd), Matthew (Monique Judd), Melanie (Christian Rindlisbacher), and Mitzi (Evan McCarthy).

When first married Elaine worked in her father's OB-GYN medical office and later pursued continued education through community colleges.  She and her family lived in Pocatello and Idaho Falls, before moving to Utah in 1972.

She was deeply involved in her community and church throughout her life.  She held leadership roles as PTA President and District PTA President.  Elaine participated in roadshows, sang with the Mountain Jubilee Women's Chorus, and worked professionally as a consultant and national trainer for Beauty for All Seasons as well as a sales representative for Doncaster Clothing.  She brought joy to her neighborhoods through parades and community activities.

Her service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints was extensive and heartfelt.  She served as Young Women President three times, Primary President twice, Ward Choir Chorister, but her favorite calling was Primary - especially as chorister - where her love for children and music shone brightest.  Above all else, Elaine will be remembered for her ability to make people feel valued and loved.  Her warmth, talents, faith and devotion to family leave a legacy that will continue through generations.

Elaine is survived by her beloved grandchildren: Allison Oliverson (Christopher)  Carly Fontaine (Logan), Ryan Glover, Jessica Judd (Joey Avery), Alex Judd, Christopher Judd, Calvin Judd (Becca), Xavier Judd, MK Johnson (Evan), Elijah Judd, Carver Rindlisbacher (Sydney), Avery Kunz (Cooper), Olivia Rindlisbacher, Caleb McCarthy, Gavin McCarthy, and Kloie McCarthy.  Her Great Grand children: Lincoln and Courtney Talbot, Sydney Goulding, River Judd and Margo Rindlisbacher.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary (4760 South State Street, Murray, UT).  Funeral services will take place on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 12:00pm with a viewing prior from 10:30am to 11:45am at Murray Little Cottonwood 6th Ward (725 East 6410 South, Salt Lake City, UT.)

RIP Elaine

RaNae Green (Palmer)

Gary Paul Fannin obituary

Ocdtober 19, 1943  * * May 10, 2026

Gary Paul Fannin, age 82, passed away peacefully May 10, 2026 in Roy, Utah.

He was born October 19, 1943 n Portland, Oregon to June Alberta Patten and Delbert E. Fannin, but grew up in Pocatello, Idaho.  He attended Pocatello High School where he ran sprint for the track team, and graduated in 1961.  Gary served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in the Hawaiian Islands from 1962 to 1964 where he worked much of the time as personal secretary to two different mission presidents.  After returning from his mission, Gary attended the LDS Business College where he studied accounting.  While there he met his sweetheart, Lorna Solum.  They were sealed for time and eternity in the Logan, Utah Temple on July 23, 1965.  After a few years they ultimately settled in West Jordan, Utah, where they raised two daughters, Gerri and Kelli, and resided there for the next 50 years.

Gary worked his entire career at the University of Utah, starting out in the electronics shop and moving into plant operations, where he worked as a supervisor for many years, and finally retired in 2005.  Gary was a very dedicated emloyee and worked on many projects and implemented ways to improve the quality of various equiptment and procedures.  While there he had the  opportunity to run the sound for many sporting events and concerts, being able to work side by side with many recording artists to achieve the best sound for their concerts.  He was an avid Utes fan and could always be seen wearing red, white and black in support of them.

Gary was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and had a valiant testimony of Jesus Christ.  He served in many callings including as a teacher, High Council member, bishopric counelor and many others.  After his retirement Gary and Lorna  were service missionaries in the employment services office, which they loved very much.

Gary loved camping and bowhunting with his family and neighbors, hunting antelope, and spending time with his family.  He loved to reload ammunition and was an excellent silhouette shooter.  He also enjoyed bird watching, especially in his backyard bird sanctuary and doing nature photography.

Gary is survived by his children:  Gerri (Scott) Harper, and Kelli Fannin; 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Lorna, and sister Leona Rowan.

The family would like to give heartfelt thanks to the staff at Sunridge Assisted Living in Roy for the wonderful care and kindness they gave to Gary as well as the staff at Atlas Homecare and Hospice.

A viewing will be held at the Valley View Memorial Park (4335 W 4100 S) West Valley City, UT) on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 10:00am to 10:45am.  A graveside service will immediately follow at 11:00am. 

RIP Gary

RaNae Green (Palmer)

OBITUARY FOR MICHAEL LEE PETTY

MAY 26, 1943 - JANUARY 23, 2026

Michael Lee Petty 82 of Chubbuck, Idaho, passed away on Janurary 23, 2026, leaving behind a lifetme of stories, laughter, and well-documented adventures.  He was born on May 26, 1943, in Pocatello, Idaho, to George Lee Petty and Mary Fay Smith Petty.  A proud lifelong resident of Pocatello, Michael loved his hometown and the people in it.

Michael graduated from Pocatello High School in 1961, but perhaps his greatest accomplishment was meeting his high school sweetheart, Josalyn Schoeck.  They spent their teenage years attending tennis court dances, Band Stand and all the classic small-town social events that made the early 60's unforgettable.

After high school, Michael served his country in the Army National Guard.  Once his service was complete, he returned home, married Josalyn, and began building the life he loved.  He worked as a carman for the Union Pacific Railroad.  In the eary 70's Michael joined the Naval Reserve program and worked as a Steeworker in the Navy Seabees.  Michael officially retired from the Railroad around 1991, but he never actually slowed down.  Whether he was tackling a home project, maintaining his property or keeping meticulous records, he approached every task with an undiminished energy that defined his life.

Michael and Josalyn raised their two children, Michael and Traci, in Pocatedllo.  As a family, they camped their way through Canada, explored the Oregon and Caifornia coasts, and visited many ski resorts with family and friends, creating memories that would at a lifetime.  Later, though their marriage ended in 1987, the years they shared built a strong foundation.

In 1989, Michael met JoAnn Moore of Blackfoot, Idaho and the two were quite a pair.  They spent countless hours fishing side by side and became local legends at their annual Halloween costume contests - often taking first place whether dressed as matching scarecrows, Raggedy Ann and Andy or a prehistoric caveman and cavewoman duo.  Together they traveled the country in the Odyssey van, happily checking off states one by one. 

Michael's hobbies truly defined him.  He treasured time with his sisters Sue Frasure (Martin) and Debbie Sorenson (Kent), his mother, and his nieces and nephews.  Even in recent years, he faithfully attended weekly pizza night with family and regular gatherings with old friends - because routine, like record-keeping, mattered to him.

And speaking of record-keeping - if you ever wondered about the exact temperature, wind direction, date, time, and participants of a fishing, hunting, or skiing trip from 30 years ago, Michael was your man.  He could tell you precisely when the water heater was replaced, how many miles were on the truck at its last oil change, and why preventive maintenance was a life philosophy.

If there was one true passion that edged out the rest, it was goose hunting. Though duck, pheasant, and deer hunting were close contenders.  And when it came to fishing - especially below the American Falls Dam - it was nearly impossible to keep him away.  Michael truly lived for the outdoors.  His extensive photo and mount collections were of his proudet moments in the field and on the boat as they served as undeniabe evidence of a life well-lived in pursuit of his passion.

Michael also enjoyed the thrill of a little gambling adventure, whether at Fort Hall, Jackpot, Wendover, or Las Vegas.  He loved a good Keno card and was never one to turn down a lotto ticket.  He believed in living in the moment - preferably with a good story, a cold drink, and plenty of laughter. 

Sadness struck in October of 2020 during the height of COVID when Michael's partner in crime, JoAnn, passed away.  Good days were fewer and farther between after JoAnn's passing.  He missed her beyond words.

In May of 2022, Michael interviewed his greatest soon-to-be tenant on the planet, Pat O'Brian.  Pat was often mentioned in conversation, whether it was just having a beer and cigar on the front stoop or tearing up the town on one of their gambling trips.  Pat was a true friend from day one.

He is survived by his son, Michael Todd Petty (Tracy) of Pensacola, Florida; his daughter Traci Lambson (Garth) of Chubbuck, Idaho; his sisters Sue Frasure (Martin) of Pocatello and Debbie Sorenson (Kent) of Pocatello.  He is also survived by six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, along with beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Michael will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and frequently quoted.  His stories, laughter, and legendary logs of life's adventures will live on in all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Michael's life at a Memorial Service and Celebration of Life which will be held at 4pm on Saturday, May 23rd, 2026, at the Trinity Episcopal Church located at 248 North Arthur Avenue in Pocatello, Idaho.

Memories may be shared on the Wilk's Obituary page.

RIP Mike

RaNae Green (Palmer)

"Thank You" to Judy Williams Harris for notifying me of the passing of  Betty June Gabbert Wood.

OBITUARY FOR BETTY JUNE GABBERT WOOD

Betty June Gabbert Wood, our beloved mother, Nana, and Great-Nana, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on May 15, 2026, at the age of 82.  Mom lived a life defined by sacrifice, service and unwavering devotion to her family.  She endured trials and burdens throughout her life that most people could never have carried, yet she possessed a strength beyond measure.  Above all else, Mom was a woman of deep faith - faith in her religion and faith in her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Betty was born on July 7, 1943, in Pocatello, Idaho to Harold Gabbert and Ada Elizabeth Esler Gabbert.  She was the youngest of five children.  Mom loved growing up in Pocatello and often spoke fondly of the dear friends she made there.  She played the clarinet in high school and was a member of the marching band.

She later attended LDS Business College, where she met the love of her life, Dorald Jenkins Wood.  They were married and sealed in the Logan, Utah Temple on September 6, 1963.  Together they began their family in Bountiful, Utah, where four of their chidren were born.  A few years later they moved to Afton, Wyoming, where they welcomed two more children into their family.

Mom was truly a giant of a woman.  Though she stood only 5 feet and 1/2 inch tall in her prime, she was stronger and taller than anyone we knew.  After the tragic passing of her husband, Dorald, on Feb 21, 1991, she raised six children on her own for the next 35 years.  The years that followed were not easy, but Mom faithfully filled the roles of both provider and comforter until the day she passed.  She worked tirelessly to provide for her famiy while living a humble and simple life.  Through every hardship, she carried herself with quiet determination, resilience, and love for her children.

Mom held many jobs throughout her life, including working at Pizza Hut in Afton, Star Valley Drug, Sam's Club and Dollar Tree.  She was loved by coworkers and customers alike and brought warmth and kindness to everyone she met.  Her favorite job, however, was working in the cafeteria at the Logan Utah Temple.

The winters in Star Valley eventually became difficult for Mom, and she later moved to Smithfield, Utah to be closer to her children.  Smithfield became her home for more than 25 years.  She loved living there and was especially excited when the Church announced a temple would be built nearby.  She would often say "I can see MY temple from the kitchen window."  She deeply hoped to attend the open house and dedication while she was alive.  Though she may not attend in person, we know she will be there in spirit.

Mom always needed to stay busy.  She was never one to sit still and filled her days doing the things she loved:  crocheting hot pads -- many, many hot pads -- reading books, and cleaning her house.  Her hot pads can now be found in homes alll across the world because she would never let anyone leave without one or two.

Mom loved card games, and with old age came a few new tricks.  We are fairly certain she cheated from time to time, though she always played innocent and we happily let her get away with it.  Her favorite meals to prepare when family came to visit were cheese soup and brownies.

Mom lived a simple life without concern for fancy things.  She was a master seamstress and lived by the saying:  "Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without."  Later in life, Mom was able to travel the world with some of her children.  She visited South Korea several times, stood atop the Eiffel Tower, visited Sweden, and cruised on the Baltic Sea.

She was also able to attend the open house and dedication of the Helsinki Finland Temple, where Dorald served his LDS mission.  Most recently she visited Yellowstone National Park with her son. 

Mom was always more cocerned about others than herself.  Shortly after her fall and hospitalization, she worried about upcoming birthdays, graduations, and marriages of her grandchildren.  She wanted to make sure cards and checks were sent to each of them so they would know she was thinking of them and that she loved them.  Mom quitely gave to food banks, struggling families and those in need, even during times when she herself had very little.

Betty was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many callings throughout her life.  She quietly performed countless acts of service, most of them unseen and without recognition.  More than anything, Mom had an unwavering testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ and His Atonement.  She spent many hours on her knees in prayer, pleading with the Lord through her trials and afflictions, and especially for her children and grandchildren.  Shortly before her passing, she said with peace and certainty, "I will see Jesus Christ next week."

Mom is survived by her six children:  Joe Wood (Kira) of Texas, Taunalee Raymond (Hal) of Utah; Wendi Putnam (Curt) of Idaho; Kyle Wood (Corey) of Idaho; Bonnie Murray (Clayne) of Tennessee; and Ben Wood of Idaho.  She is also survived by 22 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and two more great-grandchildren expected in November.

At Mom's request, no funeral services will be held.  A private family graveside service will take place at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, Mom would ask that donations be made to support a missionary or someone in need.

RIP Betty

Del Taylor

RaNae, I see Garry Pritchett's obit in Wilkes obituaries, sad to see another of our classmates and friends have left us. I remember Garry as a very good guy.  We did have a very good class of many, many very good kids.  Love and peace to all of them.  Fondly and sincerely, Del