Betty Louise Schille peacefully passed away in her sleep on November 4, 2024. Betty was born in Everett, WA to Evelyn Ricard (Surface) and Melville (Gary) Surface, and lived most of her life on Whidbey Island. After she graduated from Langley High School, she married William Fredrick (Bill) Schille in 1960 (deceased, 1983). On Whidbey Island, Betty and Bill raised four children. Betty’s children recall that among their fondest memories was how she expressively read to them each night—taking care to bring characters alive. She filled their lives with many creative experiences and loved them beyond all telling. It was this love of children that motivated her to be a classified educator with the Oak Harbor School District. She worked with many special needs children, and even learned sign language to communicate with deaf students. In May of 1987 she met the love of her life and partner of 37 years,John Staffanson. Betty was always up for an adventure, and she and John traveled across the United States and Canada from Alaska to the East Coast and even to Australia. Still full of adventure, she visited Australia again, Europe, and Africa with family and friends. Her adventures included visiting her daughter in the Peace Corps (Dominican Republic) and traveling on an African Safari with her daughter and son-in-law. She even petted a cheetah. Much more than traveling, she enjoyed what life offered her—winning first prize for her home-made Tin Man Halloween Costume, attending Gospel Jams, or just spending time with her family and loved ones. She found the joy that many of us strive to achieve. As her partner John says, “Betty was an Earth Angel.” We will miss her very much. Betty is survived by her partner, John and his family, as well as her four children: Tammy Straub (Tim), Bill Schille (Jeri), Norm Schille (Tracy), and Kris Smith (Michael), nine grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. In addition, she is survived by one sister, Dolores Nagle, and two brothers Donald Surface and Dave Surface. She was preceded in death by her husband Bill, granddaughter Ashley, and eight siblings: Anita, Roy, Mel, Jen, Leota, Carol, Will, and Vic.