Betty Oliver, 80, became one of our angels on April 10, 2023, in Kennewick, WA.

Betty was born on April 1,1943 in Pasco, WA, to Verne and Doris Hansen Baum.
She graduated from Kennewick High School in 1961.

Betty married Merlin Joseph Oliver on December 7,1963 in Richland, WA. They adopted their only daughter, Claudine, in 1967. Betty was a wonderful mother. She loved Claudine with all her heart and did everything in her power to make sure she knew it. She made many sacrifices because of that love.

Betty worked as an Administrative Assistant for the Agricultural Service Center and retired from there after more than 25 years. She enjoyed her co workers and the associations she had with local farmers.

Betty was such a bright, kind, compassionate, and loving woman. She really didn’t like to be in the spotlight or have big deals to be made about her. She was very humble. Here are a few of the things she loved-Elvis, dancing, playing games, reading books, animals, and spending time with her family. One of her talents was crocheting. She enjoyed creating items such as baby blankets, lap robes, and hats for soldiers, to give away. She was a very generous woman in all aspects of her life.

The highlight of the last 26 years of her life was the time that she spent with her granddaughter, Kylia, who was her pride and joy. They spent many hours visiting about life. One lesson that she bestowed upon her loved ones was to be open minded and believe in yourself. She would say, “we are all taking different paths in life, trying to get to the same place. And I believe that as long as you aren’t causing pain or harm to yourself or others, then you should follow the path that makes you most happy.” She respected all people and we hope that legacy can be shared with our community.

In her later years, she formed many friendships, that she cherished, while living at Brookdale at Canyon Lakes and The Squires Residence. We know that she would want those individuals to know how much their friendship meant to her.

Betty is survived by her daughter Claudine (Douglas) Furniss. As well as her grandchildren Kylia Nicholls, Daniel Furniss, Juliana Furniss, and Sergio Furniss.

Betty is preceded in death by her father Verne Baum, mother Doris Hansen, brother Gene Baum, and Merlin Oliver.

A celebration of life will be held on May 13th at 12pm at 8120 West 4th avenue in Kennewick, WA. Come enjoy some lunch and reminisce about the wonderful woman that Betty was. Please RSVP to Claudine at clodhopr1@msn.com.