Betty-Lou Williams

Betty-Lou Williams (nee Harris), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, died on July 16, 2023, at the age of 99 in Escondido, CA. She was born on August 30, 1923, in Los Angeles, CA to Glenn and Cleone Harris. Betty will always be remembered for her kind and loving nature, as well as her sharp mind and fun sense of humor.

Betty is survived by her daughters, Alison Williams (Mario Moratorio) and Meredith Medearis (Tom); her son-in-law, Charles Hagen; her grandchildren, Lauren Boschetti Mancuso (Brian), Annie Boschetti, Gregory Boschetti (Allison Schmidt), Scott Medearis (Katie), Lesley Medearis Felton (Jon), and David Medearis (Johanna); and her great-grandchildren, Lacey Mancuso, Bradley Mancuso, Emory Medearis, Luella Medearis, Michael Felton, Laura Felton, Shiloh Felton, Cyrus Medearis, and August Medearis

She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Williams; her son, Roger Williams; her daughter, Margaret Williams Hagen; her grandson-in-law, Martin Alexander; and her great-grandson, Ezra Felton.

Betty Lived in Lake Arrowhead, CA during her high school years, but she attended San Bernardino High School, because there was no high school in Lake Arrowhead at the time. She continued her studies at UCLA. After raising her family, she completed her education at Wichita State University.

Betty married Harold Williams on September 25, 1943 when he was serving in the US Navy. After the war they moved to Philadelphia, where he attended medical school. From 1950 to 1956, they lived in Stockton, California and moved to Berkeley in 1956. They raised their family in Berkeley, subsequently moving to Wichita, KS, Philadelphia, PA, Long Beach, CA, The Sea Ranch, CA, Pacific Grove, CA, and Rossmoor in Walnut Creek, CA prior to Betty's final move to Escondido to be near her daughter Alison, who cared for her during her final years.

A devoted wife, Betty uncomplainingly supported Harold's career choices and changes, even when they meant uncertainty and more work for her. Their steadfast commitment to each other for over 69 years was a beautiful example to their friends and family.

A memorable illustration of the affection they had for each other and the fun they shared was one Mother's Day when Harold made a sedan chair for Betty so that he and their son, Roger, could carry her down the stairs like a queen. When the chair broke, Betty (who never weighed more than 120 pounds) laughed so hard she cried.

Betty had a knack for making her home beautiful and at the same time warm and welcoming. She was an expert knitter and weaver and many of her works of art are now family keepsakes. Although a wonderful cook, after retirement she gladly relinquished daily meal planning and preparation to Harold, who enjoyed coming up with innovative concoctions. An avid reader, she volunteered at the local library. Throughout her life she held many "jobs," but her life's work was the care of her family.

In accordance with her wishes, no services are planned.

Betty-Lou will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.