Betty C. Giese

Our beloved mother and grandmother, Betty Carol Giese, passed away on August 7th, 2025, in Austin, Texas at the age of 92, after a battle with CNS lymphoma. She passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by family.

She was born on January 13, 1933, to Laura Reule DeYoung and Arthur DeYoung. She grew up in the Roseland neighborhood on Chicago’s south side and attended Kohn Elementary and Fenger High School. After graduation she attended nursing school at St. Luke’s Hospital in Chicago and met her future husband, Marvin, at a dance held by the nursing school. They were married in August 1953 and were devoted to each other until Marvin’s death in 1995. While her children were young, she was involved at their schools as a room mother and lunch cook. She was also active as a girl scout leader for several years and planned many fun activities such as camping trips and dodge ball games.

After raising her children, Betty resumed her nursing education and graduated from SUNY Utica with a B.S. in nursing in 1987 at age 54. She worked in various capacities as a nurse and retired from the Austin State Hospital in 1995 to enjoy her grandchildren and travel. She conquered 5 continents was able to visit countries across the globe, creating amazing memories along the way.

Betty was also very passionate about her hobby of woodcarving and was a member of the Central Texas Woodcarving Guild for two decades. She attended numerous carving seminars each year learning how to craft plaques, caricatures, animals, birds, fish, and more. She made amazing friends within this group of fellow woodcarvers and always loved learning a new skill and meeting new friends.

Betty was always there to support her family and friends and will be greatly missed. No matter the event or occasion she always was there to support those she loved. With a quick wit and endless stories, there was never a dull moment with Betty around.

Betty was a member of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas. Her relationship with Jesus was the foundation and joy of her life, something she instilled deeply within her family. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and dear friends.

As a two-time cancer survivor, Betty’s strength was on display until the end of her life. Thank you to her doctors, nurses, and wonderful hospice team who provided exceptional care over the past few months. A service to celebrate her life will be held on Thursday, August 14th at 10:30am at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, Hospice Austin, or the charity of your choice.