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Betti Sheldon Obituary
Betti L. (Guiles) Sheldon, beloved mother, grandmother, and three-term state senator, passed on July 23, 2020. Betti was born on April 9, 1935, in Aberdeen, Washington, but moved around Washington throughout her childhood until graduating from Prosser High School in 1952. After graduation, she attended Gonzaga University, where she met Edward Sheldon, marrying in 1954 and with whom she would raise five children.
Her accomplishments are many. After having worked as Executive Director of the Bremerton Chamber of Commerce, Betti successfully ran for the Washington State Senate in 1992, unseating a long-time incumbent. She proudly served Kitsap County and the 23rd Legislative District in the Senate from 1993 to 2005, including 8 years as the Democratic Floor Leader. During her three terms in the Senate, Betti was respected by members of both parties for her diplomacy, integrity, and grace, often playing an important role in late-night negotiations on critical legislation. She was a passionate advocate for equality and was honored for her work for affordable housing, families, education, and transportation. Even after retirement, Betti took on active leadership roles with the Bremer Trust, the East Bremerton Rotary Club, and other volunteer activities to continue to help her community.
"The Senator," as she was affectionately known to many, is survived by children Patrick Sheldon (Jennifer), Shannon Russell (Robert), Daniel Sheldon (Jacob), Erin Sheldon (Jennifer), and Colin Sheldon (Melissa), as well as grandchildren Madeline Sheldon (Richard) and Larkin Sheldon; Connor Russell (Kevin), Austin Russell, and Emma Russell; and Myriam Perez-Sheldon and Fiona Perez-Sheldon. She will also be much missed by many cousins too numerous to mention.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Olympic College Foundation (olympiccollegefoundation.org). Services, due to social limitations, are yet to be determined and will be limited to immediate family. A larger celebration of Betti's life will take place when social restrictions are lifted. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Betti Sheldon
Valoria Loveland
July 23, 2025
We were in the same "freshman" class in the WA State Senate. As we had that experience, we became Good Friends. Betti was a smart lovely Woman, and I am so glad that we became Friends. I think of her often and so sorry I can't talk to Betti anymore. But I still love her and miss her.
Sylvia Skratek
August 28, 2020
I served with Betti in the Washington State Senate. She was a gracious and lovely woman who was a great leader. She understood what it meant to lead by example and to consider everyone's opinions. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Jeanine Long
August 27, 2020
I served with Betti in the Senate. I, a Republican, and Betti, a Democrat. But she rescued a bill of mine from Rules and was so gracious. I'll always remember how both parties often worked together on issues and wish that was still the case because we had some excellent results. Betti was an important of that "working together". Thanks Betti!
Senator Don Benton
August 23, 2020
Betti was a tough negotiator! Although we were on different sides of most fights, she was always kind to me! I enjoyed working with her, a true professional! God Bless you Betti !
Don Benton (Senator 1996-2016)
Daniel Sheldon
August 13, 2020
Thank you all for the kind comments regarding my mother. Kevin, you were a member of the family to all of us. Marshall and Lyria Miller, thank you from your favorite babysitter! Valoria and Rosemary, I know she treasured your annual adventures. And again, everyone else--our many thanks.
Dale Robinson
August 12, 2020
I will greatly miss Betti. I met Betti in Rotary and always enjoyed her conversation and grace. Peace be with you and your family.
August 7, 2020
Marshall and I would like to share with the family our prayers and thoughts regarding a good friend and person who contributed a bright smile and outgoing friendship to us and the community. Lyria and Marshall Miller
Cathy Wolfe
August 6, 2020
A lady I truly admired!
Kevin O'Brien
August 5, 2020
Betti always made me feel like I was part of her wonderful family. What a lovely, generous, fun lady. She'll be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with all the Sheldons.
Valoria Loveland
August 4, 2020
Precious Friend and Colleague. We had a special Fiendship, Betti Rosemary, and I had each others best interests and happiness in mind. A very important person in my life. I miss her but will never forget Betti.❤
Char Burnette
July 31, 2020
She was a mentor and friend. Thank you Betti.
Karen Klein
July 31, 2020
Betti was an inspiration and mentor to me and so many others. I will miss her smile, candor, emotional and intellectual prowess, and her ability to fight for what's right with grace and humor.
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