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Elizabeth West Obituary
Elizabeth West, a Sanford NC resident, died peacefully on Ash Wednesday at her Carolina Trace home following a courageous 9-year battle with breast cancer.
The adopted daughter of Vernon & Lucille Ray, Elizabeth was born in Yomitan, Okinawa on November 15, 1948 as Michiko Yohana. "Betzi" attended Santa Rosa High School (Class of '66) in California where she met her future husband of 54 years, Edward "Ed" West. She is survived by her daughters Michele Soderquist of Sanford NC, Erin West-Tate of McMechen WV, Jennifer West of Fort Worth TX, her sister Helen Harrington of Kirkland AZ, four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Betzi and Ed were married in San Diego CA in 1968. Following Ed's discharge from the U.S. Navy, they established their home in Manassas VA and set about raising their family. During this time Betzi began her career in Ladies Fashion, retiring in 1989. Being a dual career household required many relocations but the majority of her adult life was spent in Manassas VA and Kennett Square PA.
Betzi's passions were gardening, painting and interior design as well as fashion design. Her Kennett Square garden, in particular, was well-known to local residents. Possessing an "artist's eye", friends and family regularly solicited her input on everything from placement of furniture & furnishings to fabric & color selection to landscape design to wardrobe composition. However, her greatest attribute was the ability to find the good in people. She lived her life with a style, grace and honesty that attracted people like puppies expecting a tummy rub. Kind and compassionate, she was an amazingly beautiful soul.
In lieu of flowers, Betzi would ask that you plant a tree. In lieu of that, she encourages well-wishers to contact a friend or family member and tell them they are loved.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Elizabeth West
Susan
April 9, 2024
Our time together was few and far between but I remember it like it was yesterday. You have an aura and way with words. When Jen told me, I coincidentally had a volunteer tree growing in the corner of my yard. I would like to plant more trees; I'm trying not to use too much disposable paper (if that makes a difference.) I was thinking of you and am scrolling through my phone and am glad I came across your celebration of life page....almost a year later. I'm sorry I didn't say goodbye. You are missed.
Jill Cohn
April 6, 2024
A picture worth a thousand words. This picture says it all
Every year when spring arrives it brings with it all of the beautiful memories of Our Betzi. With every new shoot and flower she is there. Always in my heart. Such a great experience to have known her and learned from her. Betzi taught us all how to live life. She has left us all with wonderful memories! And a piece of her grows in all our gardens.
A true gardener, artist, decorator and the best foodie!
Betzi "said ".
She brightened my life!
Jill
Donnie and Sugar
April 23, 2023
Betzi was such a wonderful friend. Honest, encouraging and talented in so many ways.
I cry knowing you´re not here with us. I smile when I recall all the memories we created together.
Forever in our hearts.
Peace and comfort to Ed and family.
Bev Bruns
April 19, 2023
Betzi and I spent many hours together painting
and talking and visiting in PA and I am greatly saddened to learn of her passing. She was the hostess with the mostest, a brilliant cook, and the creator of charming landscapes and the loveliest garden in Kennett Square.
I would not be surprised to learn that she is busy now
creating a celestial garden as her spirit watches lovingly over her family. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family.
Maryanne, Jason & Logan Dwyer
April 15, 2023
I was saddened to learn about the passing of your mom. She was such a lovely loving soul and I know she is no longer suffering, but she was a fighter. My memories of childhood and Weir St. always lead me back to her. Sending much love, hugs, and prayers to you and the whole family.
Lisa Chamberlain
April 13, 2023
Thank you, Michele for sharing your stories about your mom. "There is no foot too small that it cannot leave an imprint on this world". All the best to you and the West family at this time.
Jennifer
April 13, 2023
Aside from your loving nature, I will always remember your patience. You always provided us time... time to reflect, time to resolve, time to calm, time for whatever we needed, and you were always there with open arms. I will continue to paint my life in the vibrant colors you showered us with throughout your life and left us to enjoy. Godspeed... I will see you on the other side! Love you forever and always.
Barbara Durso
April 12, 2023
I remember when Betzi stayed with my aunt and uncle Lille and Anthony Drago. I was pretty little, maybe 4 years old. She was this glamorous teen-ager who seemed very grown-up to me. She would let me re-arrange her make-up and perfume bottles on the vanity in the room where she was staying. She was so sweet and patient with me even though I could be a pain in the rear. May she rest in peace.
Bobby F
April 12, 2023
In today´s world you don´t get to meet many people like Ed n Betzi. She was a blessing to meet. Very powerful n strong person. Never said a bad word about anyone. Very positive n determined to fight. I have many great memories with Ed n Betzi and family. I love Michelle n Brian and they are good friends. God has taken another Angel into Heaven to look over us. Betzi was a very SWEET N SPECIAL WOMAN. Thank you Lord for putting her in my path of life. Hope to have many more memories with Ed n his family.
Thank you Jesus
Deb & Jack Garrett
April 12, 2023
We would see both Ed & Bitzy at the club and our home. Always had a wonderful time She was always so up beat and joyful
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