Elizabeth Rose Bell

Elizabeth Rose "Betsy" Bell died on May 16, 2017 from complications related to her long battle with cancer.

Betsy was born in Albuquerque to Saul and Olive Bell, on July 26, 1938, and was the eldest of nine siblings. She is survived by her brothers, Hugh, Eddie, Neil, Alan, Martin and Bruce; her sister, Molly; and many nieces and nephews and their offspring. She was preceded in death by her brother, Mandel.

Betsy’s passion for dance was formative in her life path. As a very young woman, her talent took her to San Francisco and then on tour across much of the United States. Betsy’s diverse interests also included calligraphy, genealogy, and her beloved herd of llamas, most of whom were bestowed with names from various classical operas. Betsy dedicated herself to the mastery of all her passions. She was a classical music and modern jazz aficionado, and music was a source of great joy in her life. In recent years Betsy found fulfillment and satisfaction by sharing her story with a memoir writing group at Meadowlark Senior Center in Rio Rancho.

Betsy was famous for her beautifully decorated large-brimmed hats, which she often decorated to match the season or holiday. We lost a true original with her passing and she will be missed.

Betsy's family will honor and remember her with a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 2, 2017 at Tablao Flamenco at Hotel Albuquerque, 800 Rio Grande Blvd. NW from 12:30-3:30 p.m. If you were touched by Betsy’s life, we hope you will join us for this celebration.