Elizabeth Colvin Hammett
SAN ANTONIO, TX - Elizabeth Colvin Hammett known by her family and friends as Betty, born in New Orleans, Louisiana, passed away at age 87.
Betty will be remembered by all as a strong Southern lady, the definition of a true steel magnolia. What a woman. Smart, confident and creative, she had a keen sense of fun and adventure along with an unexpectedly wicked sense of humor. A connoisseur of good manners, Betty never exemplified anything less than polish, poise and elegance. A consummate military wife, she effortlessly moved her family around the world with grace and mad organizational skills. Although she could have parlayed those same legendary skills into great wealth as a Fortune 500 CEO, she instead used them to make a home full of love and banana pudding-style comfort for her family. Betty was a gourmet cook making the simplest meal she prepared a memorable experience. An advocate of lifelong learning, she courageously conquered email, texting, electronic books and smart phones well into her eighties. With an unparalleled sense of style and a generous heart, Betty made lifelong friends wherever she went.
Betty's love for her family was deep and unquestionable, but it was love for her husband Bill which truly defined her. Their 64-year marriage was strong and steady, while openly passionate and tender. College sweethearts, Betty always said she fell in love with Bill the very first day they met. Betty and Bill went on to travel the world together, raised a family, laughed, loved and danced until Bill passed away in 2011. Carrying a deep sadness from that loss in her heart, Betty showed her southern spunk by making the most of her life without Bill -- content, full, self-sufficient, unafraid and with joy.
Betty is a graduate of Centenary College in Shreveport, Louisiana. After Bill retired in Atlanta in 1993, Betty and Bill eventually moved to San Antonio, Texas to be closer to their children. Betty is a member of Trinity Baptist Church and found much enjoyment in community service, theater, books, movies and just spending time with family and good friends.
Betty is survived by son, John and wife Arleen; daughter, Toby and husband Don; son, Jeff; one grandchild, Travis Hammett; sister, Joy Donaldson and husband Armand, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews that were dear to her.
Betty was simply a class act. She will be deeply missed, leaving a hole the size of Texas in our lives and our hearts.
You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.porterloring.com
Arrangements with PORTER LORING, 1101 MCCULLOUGH, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, 210-227-8221
Published in Shreveport Times on Aug. 25, 2013
