Betty Keefe, 91, of Phoenix, AZ, peacefully passed away on Monday, October 27, 2014, while surrounded by family and loved ones. Betty was preceded in death by her husband William, son Kelly, and daughter Peggy Keefe-Walsh. She is survived by her children Mike, Steve, Patricia Guzman, Peter, Rob, and Tom, 15 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and sister Barbara Arends. Betty was born in Irvington, Iowa to Roy and Mabel Blythe on March 27, 1923 and was the second oldest of 4 children. She attended Nursing College in Iowa and graduated at the end of World War II. Betty was a Registered Nurse for the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Phoenix for 30 years and continued practicing nursing in a variety of capacities around Phoenix after her retirement. Betty’s heart was always directed towards helping others and caring for loved ones, friends, family, and anyone who could use a word of encouragement, some practical advice, or any favor that she could provide. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, welcoming new family members, and enjoying holidays where large gatherings reinforced her values in her faith and the good graces of raising eight children with her husband of 54 years. She never tired of spending time with her grandchildren, shopping, dining, and visiting friends, and even up to her last days reminded her family of how lucky she was to have so many family members to be surrounded by. She will always be remembered for her wonderful smile, friendship, and positive attitude towards the things that her life provided to her. A funeral mass will be held at 12:00 on Saturday, November 8th at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 1954 N. 24th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008. In lieu of flowers please celebrate life with your family by planting flowers or making a small donation to the charity of your choice. Please visit www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com for online condolences.
B arbara Blythe-Arends
Sister to Sister: Betty Bobby Keefe
I would have loved to have knelt more often with you at Saint Agnes
Church. We would visit together the altar of the Blessed Mother.
A holy candle would reflect the beautiful roses of your heart.
Your wonderful children made it possible for me to once more
touch your hand and see your endearing smile. God wrapped our
arms in a hug and love passed between us like a holy fire. Thank
you for caring for me like a mother when I was living with you
and Bill.
I know Heaven has accepted you with visions of joy. I will continue
to say my the Hail Mary for your intention.
Goodbye Dear One Goodbye
Barbara
marilyn saxe
I am so sorry that I will not be able to be with all of you on Sat. I truly loved being with BETTY and lately seeing and chatting with her on Skype. We always had so much to talk about, and brag about our children and grandchildren and the greats. One of our best memories is when Mike and our Cynthia took BETTY, BILL, JERRY AND I TO JULIAN to celebrate our anniversaries. We, all had such a wonderful time ,great hotel, riding in a carriage and enjoying all the sights of the countryside, and all the delicious meals. Now life is all about these wonderful memories. love you BETTY, MARILYN
Sandy Akins Wiegand
I am so grateful for the precious memory I have of our mothers visiting for the last time just a few months ago. Their faces lit up when they saw each other and they began to chat; just as they always had. I am certain my mom was present to welcome your mother “home” along with all her other loved ones. May your faith carry you through this difficult time. We are grateful for the memories we have of spending time with your family all those years ago.
With love, from our family to yours,
Mike, Debbie, Sandy, Doug, and Phillip Akins
Betty J. Thompson R.N.
You will be missed Betty but I know you are resting in peace and enjoying being in the arms of our Saviour Jesus Christ. You were a great friend and Nurse. You served will while you were here with us. You took care of the needs of your family and you were greatly loved by all of them. You are now with your beloved husband and he is so happy to have you back with him. Sorry we did not make that last Coffee together but we will meet again (Debbie Moffet also) and there we will can continue our Friendship. We did our part in serving the dear people here. No Good Bys as we will meet again Betty J. Thompson