Create a Meaningful Tribute in Minutes

Betty J. Constant, a beacon of intelligence, generosity, and spirited vitality, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2024, in her birthplace of Bellingham, WA. Born on June 15, 1922, to the late Oliver and Mae Shippy, Betty lived to the remarkable age of 102. Every one of those years was a testament to her enduring zest for life. She was preceded in death by her sister June Jeansonne and her brother Warner Shippy.

Betty graduated from Bellingham High School in 1942. Her high school years were marked by active involvement in the Glee Club, the Art Club, and the Ski Club, each reflecting the diverse range of her interests and talents. She carried this passion for life into her higher education, earning a bachelor's degree from Western Washington University.

Betty was the proud owner of The Rome Store on Mt. Baker Highway, where she was known for her meticulous bookkeeping and customer service. Her entrepreneurial spirit was also evident in her personal life, as she homesteaded at the end of Sand Rd outside of Bellingham, demonstrating the same tenacity and dedication she brought to every endeavor.

Betty's love for horses was more than a pastime; it was a defining aspect of her life. She raised and raced horses with a passion that matched her spirit. In her youth, Betty's commitment to service shone through her volunteer work with the Red Cross Mounted Corps. There, she honed her skills in advanced first aid and horsemanship, ready to respond to disasters in areas inaccessible by automobile. Her role in the Red Cross Mounted Corps drill team further exemplified her ability to balance discipline with grace.

Her philanthropic efforts were most notable in her generous contributions to higher education. The scholarships Betty funded at Western Washington University and her support for the WWU Foundation have left an indelible mark, providing opportunities for countless students to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

We will Celebrate Betty’s Life on Friday, November 8, 2024, at 4:00pm at Wildflower Funeral Concepts, 5706 4th Ave, Ferndale, WA.