Thursday, January 26, 2023, Betsy Ross Young Newton had a joyous reunion with her parents and siblings as she returned home after a full life well lived. Betsy was born to Gaylen Snow Young Sr. and Mary Louise Ross Young on September 25, 1924. She was the oldest of her dearly loved siblings Gaylen Snow Young Jr, Mary Lou Doxey, and their precious youngest brother Teddy (Edwin Ross Young).
Betsy was always proud to be a graduate of the University of Utah where she worked to put herself through college at a time when few women obtained degrees. It was during college that she met the man of her dreams and the love of her life Joseph Raymond Newton. They were married in the Salt Lake Temple on September 4, 1946. These two have danced their way through life for over 76 years together. One of Betsy’s greatest strengths has been her ability to support Joe as a dedicated pediatrician. She valued his work and his commitment to his patients by supporting him and honoring him for the hours and devotion he put into his work.
However, she did not idle away her time as Joe worked. She was a busy Mother of six, managed real estate investments and was continually involved in community service with the Medical Auxiliary, Assistance League of Utah, and the University of Utah Alumni Board. She received the U of U distinguished Merit of Honor Award for her public service and an award from the Utah Board of Health for work to establish water fluoridation.
Music was an important part of Betsy’s life. She sang in the Tabernacle choir, performed with the Harmonettes sextet for 10 years and sang with Assistance League Act III performing group. This love of music resulted in a home filled with Betsy’s beautiful alto harmonies.
Betsy is a woman of great faith. Her life and choices have reflected her beliefs. She served in various presidencies and callings as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She particularly shined in her many years of work with the young women. Later in life, she cherished the opportunity to serve a mission in Siberia with Joe.
Betsy and Joe are the parents of six children, who will forever be grateful for the love, teachings, and security they provided, Joseph Steven Newton (Karen), Mary Williams, Raymond Young Newton, Betsy Lee… Bee Jorgensen (Dean), Peggy Scott (Steve), and Bruce Young Newton (Julie). They are Grandparents to 23 grandchildren and 52 great grandchildren. Betsy’s greatest joy has always been family. She honored her pioneer heritage as a great granddaughter of Brigham Young and Lorenzo Snow. In reality she is as proud of her great grandchildren as she is of her great grandparents. She honored those who came before by being an example of faith to those who came after.
Special thanks to the members of the Monument Park St. Mary’s Ward for their continual love and care, to Symbii Hospice, especially Lori, Laura, and Teresa, and Winnie at Emma’s Elder Care. You have all made this difficult time a smooth and sacred experience for us.
Betsy’s greatest gift, that of positivity and an effervescent smile, will be missed by all of us she leaves behind. Mom, we know we will be with you again!
A viewing will be held at the Larkin Sunset Lawn Mortuary (2350 E. 1300 So.) on Friday, February 3, 2023 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Funeral Service will be held at St. Mary’s Ward (1320 Wasatch Dr.) at 12:00 noon on Saturday, February 4, 2023 with a viewing prior to the service from 10:30-11:45 am.
You may watch the service online through Zoom using the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84824067413
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I loved my Aunt Betsy.. I will miss her vivacious, personality, and wonderful character. I know my father Gaylen is thrilled to meet her on the other side❤️❤️
My thoughts, prayers, and appreciation to Joe and the Newton family for my many fond memories of growing up in the old Monument Park 15th ward. Joe always made everyone around him a little better and to this day I will always be grateful for his tireless mentoring and development while growing up. Joe has always been one of my life mentors and adult leaders from my youth. You could always count on Joe going the extra mile and doing it unconditionally. My parents, Dick & Ettalue cherished and enjoyed Joe & Betsy’s friendship over the many decades from medical school to retirement and beyond. Thanks, Joe, for all your kind gestures and for making dad’s day a little brighter or enjoyable well into your 90’s as you’d pick him up for lunch or a beverage. Here’s to the Newton family!