Betty Beatrice Boswell

Loving mother and wife, Betty Beatrice (Brier) Boswell passed away quietly at home on January 4, 2021, a date marking her 98th birthday. Her birthday celebration, held January 3rd and limited by social distancing, was attended by many family members.

Betty was born on January 4, 1923, in Brighton, Iowa, to JB (Jake) and Faith Brier and moved with her family to Fresno in 1926. She attended Fresno High School and Fresno State College. In June, 1941 she married the love of her life, Rev. Robert Boswell. They made their first home in Del Rey, CA where Bob was serving as pastor of the Methodist Church.

While Bob served the Methodist Church’s Northern California Nevada Conference as a minister, Betty was the epitome of a pastor’s wife: Gracious, generous and welcoming to all. In 1990 following Bob’s retirement the couple returned to Fresno. Betty and Bob were avid readers and delighted in world travel, with trips to Hawaii, Europe, Israel, Russia, and Ashland, Oregon.

Betty was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church in Fresno, Ruth Circle of Methodist Women and a life-long PEO sister (GK Chapter). She was also a dedicated and passionate SF Giants fan.

Betty will be remembered for her elegance, style and gentle manner. Yet despite her calm outward demeanor, she was a ruthless opponent at any card or board game humbling many unsuspecting players.

Betty was predeceased by Bob in 2008 after 67 years of marriage and her brother, Harlan ‘Bud’ Brier. She is survived by her three children, Bobbie (Barbara) Vivian of Fresno, Craig Boswell of Carmel Valley, and Beverly Brook of Santa Cruz. She leaves five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

The family warmly thanks the staff of Bella Care Homes, who took loving care of Betty and provided a wonderful birthday celebration for her on Sunday.

Donations in Betty’s honor can be sent to Poverello House, P.O. Box 12225, Fresno, CA 93777-2225 or poverellohouse.org.