Elizabeth Tanner

Elizabeth (Betty) Adrianna Lugthart Tanner, 97, of Ashland, formerly of Fredericksburg and Weslaco, Texas, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Hospice of North Central Ohio on December 25, 2014. Born in Akron, Ohio, she was the daughter of Daniel D. and Golda (Enlow) Lugthart.

Betty attended Akron College and then moved to Weslaco, Texas in the late 1940's where she became a New York Life Insurance saleswoman. She later became a real estate broker at which she excelled for over 45 years. She was a CMB (Certified Master Broker) and past president of the Rio Grande Valley Board of Realtors.

She moved to Fredericksburg, Texas in the early 1990's where she continued to dabble in real estate and was active with Meals on Wheels and Hospice. She finally returned to Ohio to be with her sister and nieces in early 2011. Here, she remained active and resided at Brookwood Place at Brethren Care Village.

Betty was instrumental in helping many people get their start in various business ventures.

She was a lifetime member of the Unity of the Valley Christian Church in Pharr, Texas. Betty enjoyed family, friends, music, reading and was always sure everyone was "happy". Her sense of humor, smile and laughter brightened many lives and will be greatly missed.

Her words to the wise to many, "do what you know is right" rings on.

She is survived by her sister, Denise L. Crone of Ashland; a daughter, Kristin (Everett) Ballard of Fredericksburg, Texas; three grandchildren, five great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren; and several nieces and a nephew including Sherry Johnston who was Betty's "right hand man".

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Neil Lugthart; a very special friend, Beatice Hardy; and her very special golden retriever, Andy.

There will be no services at this time. A memorial service is being planned for a later date.

Betty would have asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Brethren Care Village Activity Fund, Hospice of North Central Ohio or the ASPCA.

The Ashland Home of Wappner Funeral Directors is handling arrangements for Elizabeth Tanner.