Betty Jo Zerfoss

Betty Jo Zerfoss, age 76, passed away surrounded by love, peace, and the enduring grace of a life well lived. Born in Kirkland, Washington, Betty Jo’s family moved to Idaho during her early years, before returning to Washington in 1968. It was in Kirkland, at a Christian concert, that she met the love of her life, Dee Jay Zerfoss, introduced by a dear friend, Pam. She didn’t know it then but…nine months later, on September 18, 1970, they would begin a 55-year journey of marriage, full of faith, laughter, and boundless devotion.

As a mother, Betty Jo’s love knew no bounds. Their son, Joseph, arrived in 1975, followed by their daughter, Leah, in 1977, and their youngest, Nathan, in 1979. Their home was a symphony of joyful chaos, as Betty Jo poured her heart into raising her children, creating a sanctuary of love and wonder.

The family found solace in nature, camping for many summers at Banks Lake, and later embracing winter by skiing at Silver Star in Vernon, British Columbia. Betty Jo, Dee Jay and her brother shared a special bond as they fished together—once reeling in 54 fish in a single day, each a trophy of their time together. Her love for the outdoors, shared with Dee Jay, was a cornerstone of their life.

A woman of deep faith, Betty Jo was a devoted member of the Valley View Baptist Church and later Alderwood Community Church in Lynnwood, Washington and ultimately winding up at Northview Community Church. For 25 years, she was a beacon of knowledge and spirit on the quiz team with her husband, memorizing verses with her family, leading them to six national championships in those 25 years. Through all of this, her faithful spirit was a guiding light.

Betty Jo loved her dogs as fiercely as her family. Chelsea, Annie, and Stetson each held a place in her heart. In her final days, Stetson never left her side, sleeping quietly beneath her hospital bed.

Every Friday was Grandma Day—a sacred time of hiking, laughter, and adventure with her grandkids. And in later years, she and Dee Jay traveled in their motorhome, marveling at Montana, Utah, and a dinosaur fossil museum that sparked her amazement.

Betty Jo’s life was a testament to faith, family, and boundless love. She is survived by Dee Jay, her children Joseph, Leah, and Nathan, her grandchildren, and all who knew her as a beacon of grace. She will be deeply missed, but her light will forever shine in the hearts she touched.