Betsy Vargas

Betsy Vargas, the beloved matriarch of her family and a lifelong resident of the Placer County foothills, passed away peacefully at the age of 101 on December 19, 2025. Betsy was a cornerstone of the family ranch where her ancestors settled in the mid 1800’s in addition to the ranch life she shared with her husband for many years. She spent her life surrounded by the beauty of the foothills, hard work, and the enduring spirit of rural life.

Betsy was a devoted rancher’s wife and a proud member for many years of the Placer County Farm Bureau, 4-H Club, Mt. Pleasant Farm Bureau Hall, Women’s Club, a local Horse Club and a volunteer with the annual Placer County Holy Ghost Association Portuguese Picnic Parade. She was an active participant in community events and proudly volunteered at the polls on Election Day.

She was a woman of great curiosity. Betsy loved reading historical fiction and researching her family’s genealogy, carrying forward a deep appreciation for heritage, tradition and storytelling. She found joy in knitting and crocheting, and her hands were rarely idle. She also cherished traveling abroad and across the States, but she was also always at home with visits to San Francisco, and the California coast.

Betsy was known for her strength, wisdom and her ability to bring loved ones together. Her home was always open to friends and family, offering warmth, laughter and countless memories shared around the table, yard and the swimming pool.

Known for her sharp mind, Betsy enjoyed good conversation and spirited debate about politics and current events. She stayed well informed and never shied away from sharing her thoughtful perspective.

Betsy was predeceased by her husband, two brothers and three of her children. She is survived by a sister, three children, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces/nephews, and friends.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.