Elizabeth Mae Nelson

Betty was born May 1, 1917 in Dillon, Montana to Mary Rebecca and D. L. Stephens. The family moved to Seattle, where she attended Montlake grade school and graduated from Garfield High and the University of Washington. Betty was a member of Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority.

Betty’s parents were divorced when she was young and her mother later married Leslie Moughtin. Betty assumed his name and was known as Betty Moughtin during her school years. When Betty was 14 a sister was born, her beloved Jean Moughtin. Jean was a devoted, caring friend to her older sister and accompanied her on many journeys to visit family over the years. They had many fun times and as Betty’s health declined, Jean was always there to cheer her on.

Betty married Charles L. Spence in 1939 and they had four children; Judith Thordarson (Norm), Robert Spence (Kathy), Thomas Spence (Katy), and William Spence who died in infancy.

The center of her universe was her family and she was a wonderful mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Our home was always open to our friends. Some of her fondest memories were of our beach cabin at Lake Goodwin. Betty was involved in Cub Scouts, Brownies, PTA and other activities related to her children. She also volunteered for the Seattle Milk Fund and at the University of Washington Hospital. She was an active member of the Japan America Society and the Women’s University Club.

Betty and Chuck separated in 1977 and she later married Dr. James Nelson. Betty and Jim moved to the Emerald Heights Retirement Community in 1993, where they made many new friends. She was predeceased by Jim in 2003 and by her brother Robert Stephens.

Betty is survived by her 3 children and her 8 grandchildren whom she treasured: Eric Thordarson (Kris), Kristian Thordarson, Carolyn Saylor (Jim), Carl Spence (Nate), Rebecca Spence (Richard), Jenny Schmitz (J. P.), Julie Spence and Courtney Heys (Dave). Betty was the proud great grandmother of Caitlin, Tawni, Cory, Isaac, Ethan, Anna, Kari, Will, Sydney, Robbie, Alexis and Avery. Betty is also survived by her brother Bill Stephens (Pat) of Virginia and Jim’s children Don Nelson (Cyndie) and Kristin Patterson (Ron) and their children, Olaf, Erika, Karen, Andrew and Daniel.

Our family is very gratified for the care Betty received at the Corwin Center and is especially thankful for the care she received from Sandy Burke and other wonderful caregivers over the past few years. There will be a private family memorial. Memorial contributions may be made to Children’s Orthopedic Hospital or the charity of your choice.