Mrs. Elizabeth Ann Read

Betty was born on September 29, 1928 in Oakland, California and was a graduate of San Jose State University. During this period of her life, Betty became an accomplished marimba player, often performing professionally and using money earned to help pay tuition. Making the most of her love for children, her enthusiasm for learning and her creative flair, in 1950 Betty obtained a California teaching credential and soon established herself as one of Avenal, California's most beloved kindergarten teachers. While teaching in Avenal, Betty met the love of her life, Paul Read, and they were married on August 5, 1951.

In 1967, Paul and Betty moved their expanded family of five from Avenal to Fresno. Almost immediately upon moving to Fresno, Paul and Betty became active members of The Peoples Church, where Betty served in a variety of ministries for well over 40 years. As anyone who ever had the privilege of meeting Betty knows, she was one of those rare individuals who lived out her strong Christian faith through a heart of service for others. Over the 43 years that she was active in The Peoples Church, Betty touched the lives of literally hundreds upon hundreds of people through her involvement in various caring and service ministries, including "Calling and Caring" and "Stephen's Ministry" among many others. An avid knitter, Betty long ago lost count of how many sweaters, baby blankets, hats, scarves, socks and baby booties she made and cheerfully gave away.

Betty loved living in Fresno and her servant heart extended deep into her community. She was an active supporter of numerous community and philanthropic organizations, including Valley Public Television, Fresno Rescue Mission, Central Valley Regional Center, Christian Berets, Fresno Regional Foundation, and Fresno Christian Schools among others. Along with her husband, Paul, Betty was instrumental in establishing the Paul E.W. and Elizabeth B. Read Charitable Fund to ensure that Betty's legacy of generosity and service will continue.

While we mourn her loss, Betty was blessed to have lived a full, rewarding and contented life. Several years ago, Betty was given a questionnaire asking her to reflect upon various aspects of her life. The final question asked, "If I could do it all over again, I would _____________." Betty's answer was simple: "If I could do it all over again, I would do it all over again."

Betty is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, Paul; daughters, Barbara Watrous and Susan Read, of Visalia, California; son, Randal Jason Read and daughter-in-law Mary Read of Huntington Beach, California; and grandchildren Sarah, Paul, David and Gregory Watrous. She is also survived by her brother Dr. Arthur M. Brown of Los Altos, California; and her sister, Barbara G. Bailey of Portland, Oregon.

Visitation will be held at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Funeral Home on Thursday, October 28, 2010 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

All are welcome to attend the Graveside Service to be held at Belmont Memorial Park on Friday, October 29, 2010 at 9:00 a.m. A Memorial Service will follow at The Peoples Church, G.L. Johnson Chapel at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either The Peoples Church or the charity of your choice in memory of Elizabeth B. Read.