Betty (Porter) Self

Betty Self, 87, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2020, after a devastating fall. She was the baby of the family born to George W. and Bertha Porter in Manitou, OK on December 12, 1932.

She moved to New Mexico in 1951 where she married Ray Ayers and had a daughter, Raeann (Bill) Pourroy. She worked for the Williamson Agency until the death of her boss in 1984, at which time she retired to do all the fun stuff she hadn’t had time to do as a working wife/mother. She loved antiques, traveling, her family and friends.

Betty married her soulmate, Paul Self in 1982. She and Paul moved from Albuquerque to Rio Rancho in 1996 where they enjoyed the “country” living including all the wildlife that visited and all the beautiful hot air balloons. She loved feeding the quail and road runners that would stop by the Self Wildlife Bed and Breakfast.

Betty joined the Order of Eastern Star in 1953 and was an active member until her death. She held many offices within the organization including Worthy Matron of San Marcial in 1969 and the Worthy Grand Matron of the Grand Chapter of NM in 1989. She was devoted to the work of OES, and in later years loved being the delivery person for Turquoise Chapter’s ER Blanket group which delivered hand tied children’s blankets to the Westside Lovelace Hospital Emergency Room. Betty also became an avid domino player with her compadres at the Senior Center. She loved the game and reveled in the wins, especially against her son-in-law.

Betty was never at a loss of words and never met a stranger. She was a force to be reckoned with and at times could seem pretty harsh, but underneath we all knew she was a true softy. Her life was lived with wisdom, truth, integrity, and honor.

She leaves behind many special friends, too numerous to mention, that she loved dearly without saying so. She will also be missed by her many OES sisters and brothers that have known her for years.

Betty was preceded in death by both of her husbands; parents; sisters, Lela, Vesta and Floye; her only brother, Jim; and grandson, Brian Charlson.

She leaves behind her loving daughter, Raeann, and son-in-law, Bill; step-daughter, Sheila Rought (William); step-son, Randy Self; daughter-in-law, Gail Walker; 3 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; along with nieces, nephews, and their families.

Cremation has already taken place and Betty will be interred at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe with her loving husband, Paul Self. A Memorial Service will be held at a future date pending the lifting of social distancing restrictions. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Betty’s honor to the Meadowlark Senior Center in Rio Rancho, Road Runner Food Bank, or a charity of your choice.