Betty Janice Milligan passed away on October 3, 2025 at the age of 96. She was born on March 7, 1929, in Clovis, New Mexico. She graduated from Las Vegas High School in New Mexico and she studied business at Amarillo Secretaries and Accountants College.
She married her husband of 56 years, Charles D. Milligan, in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. Together, they raised three daughters, of whom she was immensely proud. Her greatest joy, however, came from her five grandchildren.
For decades, Betty was the smiling face who greeted patients at Dr. Milligan's medical office. She also brought that same warmth to Murphy's Mule Barn, where she made sure no one's coffee-or spirit-ever ran dry.
Those who knew Betty often find it hard to put into words what she would want said about her-because she never wanted the focus to be on herself. She devoted her life to caring for others, making everyone around her feel loved, supported and well-fed. She never met a stranger, and could strike up a conversation anywhere.
A verse that epitomizes Betty is found in 1 Corinthians 16:14 "Let all that you do be done in love."
Over the years, Betty gave generously of her time to many causes and organizations, including Eastern Star, the Democratic Party, Rainbow Girls, and Good Shepherd Manor.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles D. Milligan and daughters, Lila Milligan Boyden and Carol Shelton.
She is survived by her daughter Charla Rice; grandchildren, Ashley Boyden Lowe, Nicholas Boyden, Marshall Medrano, and Drake and Spencer Shelton, and four great-grandchildren, London and Remmy Medrano and Levi and Hadley Lowe.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at FRENCH - Westside Funeral Home, 9300 Golf Course Rd NW.
FRENCH - Westside Chapel
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