Betty Belden, 82
Betty Jean (Henschel) Belden
November 4, 1942 – December 18, 2024
Betty Jean Belden, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of December 18, 2024. Born on November 4, 1942, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, to Mamie Madeline (Paul) and Roy August Henschel.
Betty grew up alongside her four brothers—twins Roy Jr. and Richard (both deceased), Bob (Arizona) and Jim (Montana). In the early 1950s, the Henschel family moved to Humble, Texas, before relocating to California in the late 1950s, where she would meet the love of her life.
On August 10, 1962, Betty married Dave Belden in California, beginning a beautiful journey together. Throughout their marriage, they built a life of love and adventure, living in California, Oregon, Washington, and Arizona, before settling in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, their final and beloved home.
Betty is survived by her devoted husband, Dave; and her four children, who carry on her legacy of love and resilience; seven grandchildren, who brought her endless joy and pride; and five great-grandchildren, who were the light of her later years.
Betty will forever be remembered for her unwavering love, her nurturing spirit, and the way she brought her family together. She put everyone she loved first, no matter what, and her extraordinary work ethic was an example to all who knew her. Her home was a place of warmth and connection, filled with the delicious home-cooked meals she was known for and the love that made everyone feel welcome.
Betty was also known for her incredible organizational skills, having an uncanny ability to make sense of chaos. Throughout her life she built a reputation of dependability and service – helping to coordinate international car shows, wedding celebrations, church activities, and family reunions. Betty and Dave helped to establish and build the Nazarene Church in Bonners Ferry, a testament to their faith and dedication to service and community.
A celebration of Betty’s life is being planned for April 26, 2025, at The Nazarene Church to ensure her family and friends are able to attend. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Greater Idaho Alzheimer’s Association in her honor.
Betty’s love, kindness, and strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.