Betty Valdez

Our beloved, adored Mother and Grandmother, Betty Lorraine (Tollis) Valdez, passed peacefully on to her next adventure on Sunday, April 3rd in the early morning. Betty is loved by and inspirational to many. She was commonly referred to as a movie star-like figure in the lives of her many nieces on both sides of the family, due to her impeccable sense of style and glowing personality. Betty was a positive wellspring and light in this world. She was an influencer before the modern term had meaning. Betty was an important figure in every community in which she was a member.

Betty was born to Lillie Mary (Garcia) Tollis and Arnando Regiro (Dugie) Tollis on June 24, 1937, in Lexington, Nebraska. Betty was preceded in death by her parents and 2 siblings, Fern Mary (Tollis) Wilkerson, and Arnando Hector (Doug) Tollis Jr.. The family moved to Sunnyside, Utah in the 1940’s, where Betty grew up. Taking note of her clever wit, Betty's father moved her up two grade levels, and she later graduated from Price High School at the age of 16 (1953). Betty went on to professional training at Stevens-Henager Business College and completed a 2 year Associate's Degree while working in the area hospital. Betty met Michael Thomas Valdez in 1953 and the two were married by 1956. Betty worked in Carbon for the next about 4 years before moving to Salt Lake City in the early sixties. Betty became pregnant twice during the sixties, with Christine Valdez and (Michael) Valdez, both of whom sadly preceded her in death.

Betty and Mike both found work in Salt Lake. Betty worked with Utah Doctor’s and later, quickly rose to office manager with Travelers Insurance Co. and held those positions for a number of years until she decided to adopt a child, Michael Douglas Valdez in 1970. Betty quit her business involvement to dedicate herself to the profession of “Best Mother Ever.” In continuation, she then moved on to “Best Nana Moose Ever”. Betty also served as Valdez Auto Sales' accounting rep. from 1980 ~ 2006. Betty consistently visited the Sports Mall during all these years and made many friends in the process.

A devoted Catholic, Betty was a very active member of her Church. Betty served in the St. Vincent De Paul Ladies Guild during the 80’s, St. Martin De Porres Ladies Guild through the 90’s, 00’s, and 10’s. Betty was honored as the 2007 Woman of the Year at St. Martin’s. Betty served in many capacities at St. Martin, most notably as Eucharist Minister and CCD teacher, where she was able to teach her grandchildren and many extended family members, along with many other children (a life-long dream).

Betty warmly welcomed Amy (Pocock) Valdez into the family in 1995. Michael and Amy would later bring her two beautiful, strong, smart granddaughters (her words), Emily Christine, and Katie Marie Valdez whom she cared deeply for. Emily and Katie always lovingly cared for her, but especially during the last two years.

Betty suffered over the last two years with dementia, and later colon cancer—the surgery for which later led to complications leading to her passing. She will long be remembered for her positivity and the love she brought to every situation. Betty was quick to acknowledge and welcome people, and express her love through kind words and actions. She had a playful personality and was the definition of a “cutie” to those who knew her.

Funeral Mass for Betty will be held on Friday, May 20th, 11:00 a.m., St. Martin De Porres Church, 4914 South 2200 West, Taylorsville, Utah.

P.S. She made the most killer pasta and chili verde ever!!

Click this link to view additional details about Betty's Services, including any available live streams: https://my.gather.app/remember/betty-valdez