Betty Maier

Betty Maxine Maier passed away Tuesday May 14, 2013 in the arms of her daughter, guardian angel, and best friend, Betty.  Betty was 97.  Her final hours were spent at Golden Hill Health Care Center in Kingston, NY, where she received loving care and kindness from the staff.

Born in Algona, Iowa, Betty was the daughter of Clarence A. and Grace E. (Brown) Belnap.

She was always content to be in the background, never wanting recognition.  She was responsible for many selfless acts—from making prom dresses for girls would not be able to have one, volunteering at the hospital auxiliary, preparing her family’s favorite meals, caring for a family member, hosting friends, driving to college for a picnic lunch with her daughter, helping her brother through law school, and teaching Sunday School.  She was an innately elegant woman who was down to earth and full of grace. She will ever be remembered for her gentle spirit, her laugh, and courageous will.     

In 1977, Betty was called to care for her ill mother in California.  Years later, when her Mother passed, Betty lived for the next 30 years in Riverside California, where she enjoyed the company of her “girlfriends,” playing cards, traveling, and developing strong friendships.  She returned to New York following a mild stroke, and spent the last seven years close to family. Betty was predeceased by her sweetheart and soulmate, her husband Henry C. (Hank) Maier in December of 1973, and her brother Richard Brown Belnap. 

Betty is survived by her daughter Betty and Geoff Walsh of Napanoch; her sons Douglas and Sandy Maier of Milford Massachusetts.; Robert and Beth Longo of Coral Springs, Florida and G. Richard and Beverly Longo of Metairie, Louisiana; her grandchildren: Taylor and Kristen Walsh, Devlin Walsh, Kristy Maier, Karly and Ben Leverone, Kaitlyn and Tim McNamara, Conor Maier, Gary and Kim Longo, Elizabeth and Christian Milliken, Reed and Cindy Longo, Ross and Elizabeth Longo, Rob and Bethany Longo: great grandchildren; Hadley Maier Walsh, Jake, Callum, and Reese Leverone, Liam McNamara, Kayla and Tyler Longo, Amanda Tayler and Christian Milliken, Ryan, Mia, and Callie Longo, Keke and Ella Longo, and Matthew Longo. 

 The family is appreciative to the staff at Golden Hill, as well as the caregivers at Valley View Assisted Living Center in Highland, New York, particularly Advira Williams.  Betty and Vira spent many joyful hours together while Betty was wonderfully cared for at Valley View.

 There will be a graveside service on May 22nd at Fantinekill Cemetery in Ellenville, New York at 3pm. A donation may be made to the Napanoch Public Interest Group in honor of Betty.