Betty Hebert

1933 - 2025

Loving wife, mother, grandmother.
Betty "Colleen" Hebert (longtime resident of Petaluma, Ca), age 92, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025, in Ramona, California at her daughter's home. Born on May 30, 1933, in Gratiot County, Michigan to Queenie and Bill Simcox, she lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, dedication to education, and a deep love for her family.
Colleen, oldest of four girls, grew up on a dairy farm in central Michigan, where her early experiences instilled in her both a strong work ethic and an enduring desire to explore the world beyond her rural roots. She graduated from Ashley High School in 1952 and went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University in 1955. Her passion for learning naturally led her into the field of education-a calling that would shape the course of her life.
As the wife of a naval officer, Colleen traveled and lived throughout the United States as well as outside the United States. Over those decades, she taught in the schools where she lived. In the 1970s, while living in Virginia, she pursued additional educational training and shifted her focus to special needs education. This transition reflected not only her commitment to teaching but also her compassion and belief in the potential of every student. She continued this important work until her retirement in Sonoma County in 2005.
Colleen's personal life was as rich and fulfilling as her professional one. She shared many years with her beloved husband Larry Hebert until his passing in 2022. Together they raised a family that brought them great joy and pride. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Michelle Bearmar; son Lawrence Hebert; son-in-law Douglas Bearmar; daughter-in-law Maureen Driscoll; grandchildren Nicholas Bearmar, Christopher Boostrom, Tara Boostrom, Briana Driscoll-Hebert, Altair Bearmar, and Tenaya Bearmar. She was predeceased by her husband Larry Hebert and son Michael Hebert.
A woman of wide-ranging interests and boundless energy, Colleen had a lifelong love of travel that took root early with a 10-day senior class trip in 1952 and remained with her throughout the years. Whether exploring new places or immersing herself in readings ranging from current events to historical times in faraway lands or personal betterment, she embraced the world with open arms. She was an avid reader who found joy in literature and learning; she also delighted in adorning herself in the latest fashion while attending theater performances and concerts with her husband Larry for the 60 years of their marriage.
Health and wellness were central to Colleen's philosophy of life. She believed deeply that diet and exercise were essential components of well-being-a belief she practiced faithfully and advocated for throughout her life.
Her spiritual life was equally meaningful. Colleen attended church services throughout her life and was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Petaluma until 2020. Her faith provided a foundation for both personal strength and community involvement.
Colleen's legacy is one of compassion, intellect, resilience, and love-a legacy carried forward by those who knew her best. May her memory bring comfort to all whose lives she touched.