Elizabeth (Betty) Jean Parker passed away peacefully on June 25, 2017, at the Valley View Villa at the age of 92. Betty, as she was known to her friends and family, was born on March 25, 1925, in Sheridan, Wyoming. Her parents were Wilbur Leonard Wright and Hazel Backus Wright. She had one sister, Winifred Wright Vaughan, who preceded her in death in 2006.

Betty graduated from Sheridan High School and attended the University of Wyoming graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education with a minor in art. She married Aubrey (Bud) Parker in June 1947.

Betty was a long time Fort Morgan resident having moved here from Powell, Wyoming in 1957. She was employed for 20 years as a caseworker for the Morgan County Department of Social Services. She was a member of the United Presbyterian Church where she was active as a deacon/elder, and was active in Sunday School and the women’s organizations. Betty loved music and found great joy in singing in the church choir and playing the piano for the preschool children. She was also a lifetime member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority and was active in the local chapter.

Survivors include her two daughters, Beth (Richard) Reece of Littleton, CO and Becky (John) Rusch of Fort Morgan. Betty was blessed to have two grandchildren; Jill (Craig) Brownell of Sterling, CO and Matt (Chelsea) Rusch of Greeley. Two great grandsons, Ethan Brownell and Bennett Rusch, they delighted her and brought a smile to her face.

Betty was also close to her sister’s three children â€" David Vaughan of Albuquerque, NM, Jim Vaughan of Omaha, NE, and Kathy Vaughan of Missoula, MT. She was blessed to have many friends during her lifetime, most of who have preceded her in death. Three of her friends remained very close to her and were supportive at the end of her life â€" Marv Everett of Keenesburg; Earleen Oswalt of Fort Morgan; and Carolyn Fox of Brush.

Betty lived her life well and was an inspiration to many. She was a courageous woman who embraced life and will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 30, 2017, at 10:30 AM at the United Presbyterian Church in Fort Morgan. Inurnment will follow in the United Presbyterian Church Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, family is suggesting donations to the United Presbyterian Church, 1300 E. Riverview Avenue in Fort Morgan, CO 80701.

Heer Mortuaries & Crematory, Brush, CO - June 2017.