Obituary of Elizabeth Reed

Elizabeth "Betty" Reed Betty's earthly life, full of love, commitment and service, quietly came to an end on July 30, 2012 following a tenacious battle with cancer. Born Elizabeth Suzanne Nyberg on April 30, 1935, Betty was raised at the Bethany Children's Home in Alexandria, Minnesota. During her time there, she was inspired by matron Jeanette "Mother Jean" Larson who took a special interest in the children in her care. Betty would carry on Jean's example in her own life, offering care, encouragement and a willing spirit to all. On leaving the children's home, Betty attended Gustavus Adolphus College, earning a degree in nursing. She would go on to become a charge nurse at the University of Minnesota, where she met her future husband, a first year medical student named William Reed. Betty and Bill married in June of 1960, and shortly thereafter accepted a medical internship at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center in California. On completion of Bill's residency they relocated with two young sons and commenced building a family and a life in Chico. Active for many years in local schools, the Butte-Glenn Medical Auxiliary, Chico Aqua Jets, and other community groups, Betty was also a devoted member and volunteer at Faith Lutheran Church. She was a great lover of language, an avid art enthusiast and a lifelong piano student. In addition to the countless lives she touched, Betty is survived by Bill, her husband of 52 years, sons John and Tom, daughter Susan, and four grandchildren-Kierstyn, Henry, Betsy and Charley-all of Chico. Also surviving Betty are her sisters Virginia of Stockton, Linda Ann of Hewitt, Minnesota, and her brother Carl of Minneapolis. An open house reception will be held Sunday, August 5 from 12:00-4:00pm, at the Reed family home in Chico. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Esplanade House Children's Fund, PO Box 3251 Chico, CA 95927.