Betty Lou Walker-Smith was born February 10, 1932, in Bernie, Missouri to her loving parents Dorothy and Earl Riley. She settled in Arizona in 1964 with her husband John Walker and four children Michael (Janet) Ezell, John Walker, Randy (Vicky) Walker and Devy (John) Walker-Ferry. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Velma Julius, daughter in law Bale Walker and grandson Sean Ferry. Betty is survived by her four children, 2 sisters, 12 grandchildren and 37 great grandchildren. She passed away in her home on September 3, 2024, with her family at her bedside.
Betty led a full and vivacious life. She worked at Honeywell for over 25 years promoting to supervisor, before a stroke caused her to retire. Betty courageously learned to walk, talk and read again. The story of her recovery inspired others. She never sat still and took up puzzles, sewing, crocheting, walking miles. She was well known for making her fabulous jewelry which her daughter displayed and sold in her Scottsdale boutique for many years. Betty had a full life and loved to travel. She was able to travel with her family to Ireland, Hawaii, San Diego, New York City and often visited family in the Midwest.
A graveside service will be held at Resthaven Park Cemetery on Monday September 16,2024 at 1:00 pm She will be missed by all who knew her and she died as she lived....on her own terms, in her own home.
