Elizabeth "Betty" M Watson

Betty, as she was known by her family and friends, was born in Chicago, Illinois to Elizabeth Winfrey. She spent her formative years in the nurture and care of her beloved grandparents, Spotswood and Dorothy Winfrey.

Known as outgoing, warm, and loving person to all she met, she was engaged in a variety of social activities and career positions that used her welcoming smile and gregarious communication style. Firmly grounded in her African American and Swedish roots, she embraced friends from all backgrounds.

Sometime after completing her high school education, she was employed with the Federal Government with HUD, Housing and Urban Development and rose through the ranks to achieve a senior-level position. She lived in the northwest.

After retirement, Betty moved to Arizona to join her mother, Elizabeth affectionally called Babe, and her Stepfather Bill Branch. Her mother moved to Arizona from Chicago after the tragic death in an airplane crash of Betty’s half-brother. known as “Snookie.”

During her time in Arizona, she met and fell in love with her husband, Monroe. They enjoyed many years together in their lovely home in Surprise until he departed this life.

Betty was known for her love of people and often invited 20 people for Thanksgiving or other holiday dinners and gatherings. She was also well known for her visits to local and national casinos. On one occasion, she convinced her cousins in New Jersey to take her to the Foxwood Casino in Connecticut. It was five hours away, because she had heard that it was quite a unique and beautiful casino. The visit did not disappoint Betty because it was a beautiful resort complete with a Native American Museum.

In 2021, Betty made the decision to move from her lovely home in Surprise and moved to the Grove, which was a continuing care community. There she quickly developed new friendships and participated in the community’s activities. Betty will be remembered for her love of people, independence and wise counsel.

She had a wide circle of friends who have preceded her in death. Her brother, Snookie Ellison, departed this life in 1972. Her dear cousin, Cordelia transitioned from this life in 2018. Betty leaves a close circle of friends and family who celebrate her life.