Betty Jean Russell

Betty Jean Russell — affectionately known as Betty Boop, Betta Boo Ski, Gigi, and GMA — passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on November 12, 1937, in Sunnyside, Washington, where she grew up and graduated from Sunnyside High School.

Soon after graduation, Betty married her high school sweetheart, Bill Russell, who was serving in the U.S. Navy. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, adventure, and family. Their journey took them from one Navy base to another across the country before settling permanently in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1971 following Bill’s retirement from the Navy. Albuquerque became their cherished home, and Betty remained there for the rest of her life.

Betty and Bill shared 57 wonderful years of marriage before Bill’s passing in 2013. Betty was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose greatest joy was her family. Her love for them was unwavering and endless — she was their steady heart and their biggest cheerleader.

She is survived by her children, Debi Smith (Cesar Traconis), Donna Russell, and Glen Russell; her brother, Robert Shockley (JoAnn); her grandchildren, Whitney Eklund (Mark), Alix Farnsworth (Garrett), and Kody Russell (Lacy); and her great-grandchildren, Ava and Brynn Eklund, Slade Russell, Dune and Bayn Farnsworth, with one more precious great-grandbaby arriving in March 2026. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Russell, and her son, Gary Allen Russell.

Betty built a respected career as a Loan Officer and was deeply admired in the banking community for her integrity, warmth, and professionalism. Beyond her career, she filled her days with creativity and joy — making cards, gardening, arranging flowers, traveling, creating jewelry, painting, and practicing calligraphy. Everything she touched carried her signature care and sparkle.

Betty’s spirit was bright and unforgettable — positive, enthusiastic, courageous, and spunky, with a deep loyalty to her many friends. Her signature phrase, “Whoop Whoop!” perfectly captured her zest for life and her playful joy.

Family was always at the center of Betty’s world. Every holiday was dedicated to her loved ones, and Christmas was her very favorite time of year — the moments when her family gathered under one roof were her greatest joy.

Betty’s legacy is one of devotion, laughter, creativity, and love. Her warmth, strength, and joyful heart will forever be remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 2, 2025 - French Funerals & Cremations Lomas Chapel at 2:00pm with a reception to follow. A graveside service will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025 - Santa Fe National Cemetery at 1:00pm.