Betty Laswell, 99, Columbus

Betty Laswell, 99, of Columbus, died at Autumn Place Assisted Living, in Columbus, Sunday, May 23, 2021. Born November 10, 1921 in Joplin, Mo., Betty was the daughter of Ted and Anna Lusher.

Betty was baptized at nine years of age at the First Baptist Church in Miami, Okla. where her family lived at that time. At the time of her death, Betty was a member of Center Christian Church, in Columbus. She was very fond of Pastor Tom Goettel and wife, Evon. Loving them all, she felt very blessed to worship with her brothers and sisters at Center Christian Church.

Betty and Elwood “Woody” Laswell were united in marriage May 25, 1944. He preceded her in death April 25, 1991. She was also preceded in death by her parents, brother, Ray Lusher, granddaughter, Beth Ann Hunter and sons-in-law, John Neal and Pacey Wohlner

After graduating from high school in Kansas City, Mo., Betty pursued her interests in education and business, obtaining certificates in both areas. For a short period of time, she taught elementary school prior to beginning her professional career in the business field. The position Betty will most likely be remembered for was serving as the Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce. She always credited her boards of directors and committee members with making the Columbus community the success it was during her tenure. Throughout her years in the Columbus community,

Throughout her years in the Columbus community, Betty was very active in many organizations, serving in leadership and committee positions. She was honored to be chosen as a recipient of the Columbus “Chris Award” and on her 90th birthday, then Mayor Marie Nepple signed a proclamation honoring Betty with the “Key to the City.” Longtime friend and neighbor, Ivan Collins, made the presentation to Betty. She felt very humbled to receive both awards. In her latter-years, Betty enjoyed attending the Re

In her latter-years, Betty enjoyed attending the Retired School Personnel meetings and fellowshipping with friends in the “Merry Hearts Club,” founded and hosted by Linda Jackson. As a true Patriot of this great Nation, Betty was proud to be a DAR member of Three Trails West Chapter, in Stilwell.

In 2021, Betty began writing a weekly column for the Columbus News-Report, “Generations.” Her goal for writing the columns was to uplift and encourage readers, if needed, and to express her love for, both, her hometown and friends. Betty was also a loyal fan of “her boys in blue,” Go Royals, and of the Kansas City Chiefs, living long enough to see them win an NFL Championship.

Betty is survived by two daughters, Patricia Wohlner, of Kansas City, Mo. and Jan Neal, of Sun City West, Ariz. Betty has three grandchildren and spouses, three stepgrandchildren and spouses, numerous great grandchildren; cousins, a nephew, and many beloved friends.

Memorial services are pending.

Arrangements by Bath-Naylor Funeral Home and Crematory of Columbus.