This was my first trip to see her in Bremerton. She knew EVERYONE!  We could not go anywhere without people stopping to say hi. I could tell she was loved by so many.

I have many fond memories of swimming and visiting petting zoos with Aunt Betsy when I was younger. Growing up, my mom—her sister—shared countless stories about their childhood together and the wonderful sense of humor they shared.

As an adult, our phone conversations often consisted of updates about her son, Miles, whom she loved very much, along with all the latest McNew family news. She always wanted to hear about my family—the California branch of the family—and whether we had experienced any recent fires or earthquakes.

I loved hearing stories about how she and my mom had a bit of a rebellious streak as teenagers and how they would torment their brother, my Uncle Pete. Those stories always made me smile.

Aunt Betsy was truly one of the kindest and most loving people I have ever known. She cared deeply for everyone around her and made people feel valued and loved.

While I will miss having her here on earth, I find comfort in knowing that she is reunited with my mom and Uncle Pete. I will always cherish the memories, laughter, and love she shared with our family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

With Betsy there was never a dull moment, from her taste in music she would be  jamming out to zztop or marylin Manson, to anything in-between she liked it all. She always had a story to tell when we would visit. And PJ was the light of her life til his passing. She would be so proud of herself for making a pot roast in her new crock pot for Thanksgiving with her. She was always laughing and looking at the bright side of any situation. Just a joy to be around. <3

SGT Elizabeth Diez "Betsy" Hicks USAF (Ret.) was born at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, WA on Aug 14th, 1953 and passed away on June 16, 2026. She was a fully enrolled member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe in SD. She graduated Pullman High School Class of '71 before enlisting in the Air Force in 1972. Elizabeth served as a Medical Administrative Specialist at Hickam AFB, HI. Her favorite story was when she brought a department back on it's feet while working as a supervisor. After retirement, she worked for Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle. While in Seattle, she met her husband Marvin and the two moved to Bremerton to start their lives together. They had one child. She was preceded in death by her husband Marvin, her sister Katie, and her brother Peter. She is survived by her son Miles, daughter- in- law Jenny, sister- in-law Sue, her nieces Lisa, Nicole, Trisha, and nephews Kevin and Matthew. Elizabeth will remembered for her resilience and her commitment to her friends and family. A special mention to Mary Pubols for her work and dedication to Elizabeth.

Sgt. Elizabeth Diez Hicks USAF (Ret.)  or "Betsy" as she was known to many graduated Pullman High School and went on to join the Air Force where she served as a Medical Administrative Specialist from 72'-79'. When her country called, she answered. After her retirement she worked for Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle. Around this time she met her husband Marvin Edward Hicks. The two moved to Bremerton together and they had a child named Miles. Elizabeth showed bravery and resilience throughout her life.

OBITUARY

Elizabeth Diez Hicks

August 14, 1953 – June 16, 2026

Miller-Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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