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Betty Jane Colyer

1928 - 2012

Betty Jane Colyer obituary, 1928-2012, Tacoma, WA

BORN

1928

DIED

2012

FUNERAL HOME

New Tacoma Cemeteries, Funeral Home and Crematory

9212 Chambers Creek Rd. W.

University Place, Washington

Betty Colyer Obituary

After recently celebrating 84 wonderful years of life surrounded by family and friends, Betty Jane Colyer passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 21, 2012. In a life well-lived, her most cherished roles were those of mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a matriarch in every sense of the word – a pillar of strength for those who depended on her and a model of grace for those who emulated her. Betty's legacy is reflected by the lives she touched.

Betty was born August 17, 1928, to John and Helen Olson, in Tacoma, Washington, where she attended Tacoma schools and served as an original member of the "Sleepy Hollow" gang. Betty married Frank Nunes in 1946. Betty and Frank had three children, Dianna, Frank, and Linda, residing briefly in sunny San Diego, California. Soon after, Betty returned to Tacoma where she worked as a car hop at Busch's Drive-In and waitressed at the Poodle Dog Restaurant; although, her proudest career achievement came when she was selected to serve as one of the original seven "Meter Maids" for the City of Tacoma. In 1954, she married her best friend and the love of her life, Tacoma Police Officer Ralph Colyer. Together, they had two more children, Pete and Jana, carving out their own slice of Americana and lovingly raising all five children in their home.

Betty, affectionately known as "GG," "Ba," "Airplane Grandma," and "Calvin Klein Grandma (always fashionable)," is survived by: Her children; Dianna Madison, Frank Nunes, Linda Michael, Pete (Marjorie) Colyer, and Jana (Arnie) Bergman: Her grandchildren; Kim (Pat) Elliott; Scott (Lidia) Michael; John (Leesa) Michael; Brent Michael; Jaime (Casey) Michael; Frankie Nunes; and Zebular Madison: Her great-grandchildren; Jake Elliott; Joshua Michael; Jackson Elliott; Lauren Michael; and Truman Michael.

She will be remembered forever by her family and countless friends. A service in her honor will be held at the New Tacoma Cemetery, Friday, August 24, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society – a charity close to her heart. Please share fond memories and condolences at www.newtacoma.com.
Published by New Tacoma Cemeteries, Funeral Home and Crematory on Aug. 22, 2012.

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Laura Goggins

March 21, 2013

I'm so very sorry to hear just today of your mother's passing. I remember her with such fondness. She was one of the most hospitable and gracious women I've ever known and seemed always on the verge of another smile or kind word. Her home was open to all. May the good Lord keep her close to His heart in everlasting peace.

Kathy (Herring) Lloyd

September 15, 2012

Kept trying to think of the right words, but just kept coming up with your great laugh and the dog bank that sat on your desk at work. You only kept dimes in it so it would take longer to fill up. You were an inspiration to come to work. You were so loving to me. Great memories and stories to remember. God Bless. I love you.

Laurie Halte

August 23, 2012

Aunt Betty was a class act, she was a beautiful graceful lady, very strong and kind. When I was little we would visit and she had a drawer in her kitchen with peanut butter cookies, and I still believe they were there just for me! Love to all the family, she will be missed by many.

Sally Lofquist

August 23, 2012

I was so sorry to hear that your mom had passed away. I hadn't seen her in many years, but the first thing that came to mind was her laugh - so hearty and genuine - I can still hear it and think of her and my mom talking up a storm as they sat in the lawn chairs around the fire when we went camping. My deepest symphathies for your loss. She was a special lady.

August 23, 2012

To all my love ones born of Betty Colyer.
My prayers are with each of you. I remember everyone as a baby and watched most of you grow to wonderful adults due to the love that your mom gave each of you. My mom Lucy Diedrich love Betty Jean so much and I know that she will be waiting at the gate to welcome Betty home. Wish I could be with you on this special day. Betty never missed anyone she knew services and this makes me sad to no being to her day. I have so many stories that I remember and one day I hope to write some of them and send to each of you about you beautiful mom. Hope Betty that you got to take all those wrinkles that you cherished with you. One story I will never forget. God bless each of you. Marlen Diedrich Brown. Mesa Arisona

Tammy and Tom Gimse

August 23, 2012

To Betty's family and my lovely friend, Linda. We are so sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers go out to you during this sad time. We know you have lots of wonderful memories to hold close and God's grace to find comfort in. May you find it in each other and the family and friends that love and care for you too.

Linda & Chris Warren

August 23, 2012

My prayers and deepest sympathies go out to the entire family. I never met Miss Betty, but have had so many wonderful stories shared with me by Jana, I feel as if I did know her personally. I do know she was very much loved by her family and will be missed.
Linda & Chris Warren

August 23, 2012

Pete and Marjorie...sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom....though we didn't know her, we do know where you get your smile Pete. Our loss not knowing her. God bless...Liz & Larry McDevitt

Jaime Lee Colyer Sebrell

August 23, 2012

Aunt Betty was a wonderful, fun, classy lady who will be missed. I wish I could be with everyone Friday, know my love and fondest wishes are with all of you. Aunt Betty leaves an incredible legacy and many fond memories. We all loved her very much!

Lots of love to all,

August 23, 2012

"Aunt Betty" I remember all the good times we had at your house and all the good times we had at our house. We were living far away now but we are still together. I beleive Ralph,Mark,Scott and all our family were there to greet you when you entered Heaven. WE will all be together eventually and made whole and not suffer anymore. LOve always Donna and family

Katie & Justin Erickson

August 23, 2012

We are so sorry to hear of Betty's passing and can't imagine all that you must be feeling now. I am so thankful we were able to spend the time that we were with here, although it was brief. We pray that God holds you in the palm of His hand and give you a peace that passes all understanding. Lots of love.

harold & betty lybeck

August 23, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Sue Erb

August 22, 2012

Aunt Betty was a gentle spirit. She was always so kind, loving and welcoming. My fondest memories were going to her house and sitting on the back patio while Mom and her talked. My Mom adored her very much and I'm sure Mom and Aunt Betty are enjoying their visit in heaven.

Kathy & John Horne

August 22, 2012

My Heart goes out to all of you. To me Betty was and always will be one of the most beautiful Ladys ever.. The best friend my mother Lucy ever had in her life and now I know they are together again.
Just the 17th on Bettys Birthday I woke up and said a prayer for her and wished I could see her . I have missed her so very much. Then I got the call telling us she had passed to the other side of the vale and is now in Gods arms serving him with her beauty and love and humor. Heaven recieved another Angel to fill the skies. Wish We could be there but you will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Kathy and John Horne

Charlotte S

August 22, 2012

I am truly sorry for the loss of your husband. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the entire family and friends. Please know that the God of all comfort has loving concern for you at this time. Psalms 146:5,9

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