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Betty Williams Obituary
Betty was born in St. Louis, Missouri, where she then spent her early years growing up alongside her younger brother, Jack. After graduating from high school, she immediately entered the working world, while also enrolling in and completing several college-level certificate courses, including secretarial, business, education, and real estate. This background led her to a long and varied career of business development and ownership, as well as being actively involved in many civic and community affairs.
In 1967, Betty moved to Cortez, Colorado with her husband, Hal Williams, and together they managed the Fiesta and Arroyo Theaters, which Betty continued to manage for several years after his passing in the late 1970s. She then met her life partner, Eugene Johnson, and they launched various business ventures, including purchasing the former Southwest Memorial Hospital and converting it into the Johnson Business and Professional Building. Together they enjoyed traveling around the mountains of Colorado, boating on Lake Powell, and camping in the deserts of the southwest. They loved spending winter months in Ajo, Arizona, and after Eugene passed in 2011, Betty moved there permanently.
Betty adored people and places and always had a story to tell. She made friends wherever she went and delighted them with her witty sense of humor and was admired for her strong work ethic. She made the most of her time on Earth and will be dearly missed. At her request, there will be no services.
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Memories and Condolences
for Betty Williams
Kenneth Saul
November 19, 2023
I knew Betty and Gene and loved them both. I worked for them in high school when they owned the Johnson building. I moved away from Cortez after high school but always remember the kindness they both showed me. Gene took me on my first small airplane flight where we flew up the Dolores canyon. I can honesty say they were some of the most impactful people during my teen years.
Harlon and Pat Howell
October 8, 2023
Betty, our hearts are broke, knowing you are gone, but our memories bring us back 'to the times we spent together. From working with you to enjoying time at Mann'y Beach Bar, Lake Powell, cruising on the Double Ugly, to fireworks in Rico, but our favorite memory, was just sitting around the table, sharing stories and conversation. You were my true friend for over 50 years. Thank you for being my employer, my mentor, my friend and a part of my family. You were so good to all of us,we will never forget you. You and Gene will live in our hearts forever.
Kevin Howell
October 7, 2023
I worked for Betty and Hal at a very young age at the theaters. Betty was an amazing woman and such a beautiful soul. She forever touched my life and I have to give her credit for my learning work ethic a very young age. Condolences to family and other friends that Betty forever touched. Rest in peace, Betty. I know you and Gene are on another adventure!
Tyson Schmidlin
October 3, 2023
Betty will be greatly missed and will live on through the shared memories of my family.
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Sydnee Wilson
October 3, 2023
Betty will be deeply missed, I´ll never let go of all the memories my cousins and I had with her and Gene. Save some candy for me Betty.
Kayden Yates
October 3, 2023
My deposit condolences to friends and family.
She was a wonderful lady.
Rachelle Schmidlin
October 3, 2023
Betty was such a wonderful lady and will be greatly missed. I will always cherish my childhood memories with her and Gene. Being able to explore at Trout Lake to playing on the canyon rim at their home. Lots of love and prayers to all friends and family. Scott and Rachelle Schmidlin
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