Betty Belle was born on a homestead in Montana. Her parents mined for gold for serveral years before moving to Tennessee Ridge, TN., when her fathers health could no longer support the physical demands required of this rugged lifestyle. Her father soon passed away, leaving her Mother and five children, the oldest being 8 years, at the beginning of the Great Depression. Life was hard and times were cruel in rural Tennessee. Against all odds, her Mother Carrie Eller saw them through. After her Mothers death, Betty landed in Colorado Springs with her sisters Mary and Mabel. She met and married Victor Russelavage, a decorated Air Force Warrant Officer, in 1946. They raised 5 children together. Air Force life required moving often, allowing Betty to experience life in a variety of locals including England and Hawaii. She loved Hawaii and travelled back many times over the years, often on her own. Relaxing on the beach was her comfort, no accoutrements required. She spent the last 22 years of her life happily in the comfort of her daughter Karen Pelzman. Following her Mothers example, Karen selflessly cared for her Mother sharing home and hearth. Her family is forever humbled and grateful. Betty set an example of Unconditional Love of her family, charity and sympathy toward the downtrodden, humility and self denial, that few can equal. She coveted nothing but happiness for family and friends. She had a smile and a word for every stranger, no matter who they were. Her trust was in God above all else. She leaves her family a legacy of Charity toward all. No one lived Jesus instructions That which you do for the least of these, you do for me, more than Betty Belle. This was her inner nature, this was her example for her family who loves her dearly.