Betty Evelyn Scott

She was born on February 7, 1946, in Iron Mountain, Michigan to the late Ernest and Anita (Cantrill) Beckstrom.

She was grandma to everyone, with a smile that was contagious and a laugh that brought smiles to every room she entered. A highly respected public servant, she built a renowned career with the National Transportation Safety Board, and her curiosity carried her all over the world, though nothing beat a good cruise. Closer to home, she could be found at farmers markets, browsing arts and crafts shows whenever they came to town, "popping into town" for a quick shopping spree, or gathering with friends for their monthly game of Rummikub. Her quiet evenings were simple and perfect: a bowl of trail mix (M&M's included), the remote tossed in the air, and an episode of Blue Bloods or NCIS. On summer days she sat out on her deck among her tomato plants, popping cherry tomatoes into her mouth or salting fresh slices to share with her grandchildren, often singing her favorite song, "You Are My Sunshine."

Christmas lived in her heart all year long. Her home glowed with festive decorations and the smell of pine, and Christmas music played no matter the season. She treasured time with her family, especially during the holidays, and she filled those days with traditions: homemade raviolis, pasties from the U.P., rosette cookies, cherished family recipes, the annual Occoquan tree lighting, and drives to see the Christmas lights. Those traditions were her gift to us, and we will carry them forward in her honor, keeping her spirit alive in every kitchen, every holiday, and every song she taught us to love.

Predeceased by her parents; brother, William Beckstrom and sister, Lucille Blethyn.

Survivors include her daughter, Melissa Johnson and husband Keith; one sister, Lois Zember; two grandchildren: Tabetha Johnson and Caden Johnson; one great grandchild, Keith Riley Johnson.

Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org.