Betty Haight, 80, died Jan. 2, 2012, with the same dignity with which she lived. Born Nov. 5, 1931, in Missoula, Betty’s life was characterized by a love of adventure, a well-honed sense of humor and a generous spirit. She graduated from Missoula schools and attended Modern Business College, then went on to what is now University of Montana. She was active in Delta Delta Delta sorority. _x000D_
Betty married Neil Haight (Lewistown) on April 12, 1952. Her life with Neil took them from rural central Montana to New Mexico, then back to Lewistown and finally to Helena. They traveled throughout the United States and Canada in a fleet of self-customized vans, spent countless hours enjoying wildlife at Gates of the Mountains, and traveled to Hawaii, Europe and Chile. They shared a love of music, especially jazz, as well as community theater. They also shared a dedication to the Democratic Party, and she was a longtime member of the Montana Democratic Women’s Club. She belonged to a number of other organizations, and more recently brought her cheerful outlook to St. Peter’s Cardio Rehab and Cancer Survivor groups._x000D_
Betty had a flair for her chosen work, attributing her exceptional manual dexterity to having grown up with deaf mute parents and sign language. She completed demanding studies to become a certified professional secretary, and was a charter member of MAFE, Montana Association of Female Executives. As an executive secretary, she held a variety of positions during her career, including at Shodair Children’s Hospital, Lt. Gov. Turman’s office and the university system. _x000D_
Betty was known for her smile and the quiet joy she brought into others’ lives. She was compassionate, diplomatic and the epitome of graciousness — a lady. She was devoted to Neil, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchild, around whom all else revolved. Her friendship was a rock for many. She took up the art of stained glass in retirement, and created many whimsical and beautiful pieces._x000D_
She was preceded in death by her parents, Archie and Pauline Randles; brothers, Dan and Bill; sister, Nellie; husband, Neil; and infant son, Jay. She is survived by Leslie (Chuck) Lynch and their children, Sarah, Nathan (Erica) and great-granddaughter Abilene, and Emily (Devin) Sandlin; Randy (Rhonda) and their children LeeAnna (Christopher) Flint, Chadwick Haight, Loran Brooks and Koryn Haight._x000D_
A celebration of Betty’s life will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Elks Lodge,330 Lola St._x000D_
In honor of Betty, donations can be made to The Neil Haight Memorial Law Scholarship (SUM144) at the University of Montana Foundation, P.O. Box 7159, Missoula, MT 59807-7159.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
Share
Add your thoughts and memories.