Betty Carlson passed away May 5 at her home in Patterson, surrounded by music and loving members of her family.

Betty was born Aug. 3, 1924 in Platte, S.D., to John Stewart and Thyra Micah Led. The family moved to San Jose, California after the death of her father when she was 9 months old.

Betty graduated from San Jose High School in 1942 and attended nursing school at Children’s Hospital in San Francisco. She came to Patterson to work as a home delivery nurse for Dr. E.G. Allen. She met and married Earl Carlson in 1947. During the time they raised their eight children, Betty was a loving and creative mother giving her time to each of her children’s school, athletic and church activities. She loved to entertain and with her two sisters-in-law made every holiday a celebration.

In the 1970s, Betty returned to her calling in life working as director of nursing at Del Puerto Hospital in Patterson. She later served on the Del Puerto Health Care District board of directors.

She loved travel and telling her children about her experiences. She gave of her time and talents, as a member of Patterson Study Club, Preceptor Xi Phi sorority and Patterson Garden Club.

Betty had many friendships and embraced everyone on both sides of the family, including her children and their spouses, grandchildren, cousins and relatives spread across several states. Along with her faith, she lived a full life knitting sweaters for grandkids, cooking, taking in the arts and travel, tending a fragrant garden and serving the community.

She is remembered for her grace, compassion and beauty.

Betty was predeceased by her husband Earl, daughter Judith and three brothers. She is survived by her children, Jack Carlson (Vicki), Christine Collier (Dan), Kathleen Smith (Stephen), Steve Carlson (Virginia), Stan Carlson (Jan), Ken Carlson (Carma), Jeff Carlson (Becky) and Ernst Carlson; 15 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren.

Viewing is Thursday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to noon at Hillview Funeral Chapel in Patterson. A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, May 11, at the Evangelical Covenant Church, at West Las Palmas and El Circulo Avenue.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to PRIDE Scholarships, P.O. Box 1543, Patterson, CA 95363.