Betty Joy Coleman

Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Coleman. She is survived by her loving children, Annette Coleman and Doug Coleman, as well as her cherished grandchildren, Jami Piehler, David Coleman, and Nicole Bau. Her legacy continues through her three great-grandchildren, Landry, Camden, and Brynn Piehler.

Growing up in a large family with six brothers and sisters, Betty’s life was shaped early by resilience. At just eight years old, she lost her father in a boating accident in Berthoud. Her mother Freda, along with the older siblings, worked long days in the sugar beet fields to support the family. These hard beginnings instilled in Betty a spirit of gratitude, especially for her husband Jim and his unwavering love for the family.

How do you sum up a life so well lived?

For Betty, life was about family. She ensured birthdays, Thanksgivings, Christmases, and nearly every holiday were celebrated together. She was known for her themed parties with longtime bridge friends and close neighbors, where each dish was meticulously researched for authenticity, and every outfit was bright and festive – if not historically accurate, certainly joyful. Long before the word ‘tablescape’ was coined, her holiday table designs set the scene for memories that spanned generations.

Her love of community extended beyond her home. She organized volleyball games and tennis matches with dozens of friends and relatives. Her handmade annual Christmas cards, complete with thoughtful letters, kept the extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins connected. These were lovingly reread to her in her final days.

Betty was a penny stretcher to the max. Annette’s clothes were hand sewn with 60s flair, paired with fishnet stockings or just the right hairband. Doug’s Cub Scout troop benefited from her crafty ingenuity, as she created countless projects to inspire learning.

Grace Presbyterian Church was enriched by her dedication to volunteering and Bible study groups. Book clubs, neighborhood gatherings, Fourth of July parades, and progressive dinners all ran smoother – and sparkled brighter – with her organization and creativity.

Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart. Each year, Nana would arrange one-on-one visits to spoil them with personalized adventures: building gingerbread houses at Christmas, sewing sock dolls, and completing countless craft projects together. Photos attest to the detail and care she poured into these moments. Her birthday cards arrived annually, each handwritten note unique and heartfelt.

In her last five years, Betty made her home at Longmont Balfour, where she formed dear friendships with residents and caregivers alike. Her family is forever grateful for their kindness and care.

Betty was the last of her generation among her siblings and friends, and she was ready for this, her final journey.

In lieu of a wake, the family requests that you hug those dear to you and donate to a cause you love in her memory.

Betty Joy will be deeply missed – for all the small, thoughtful, and beautiful ways she shaped the lives of those around her.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howemortuary.com for the Coleman family.