Elizabeth A. Reece

Elizabeth “Betty” Reece, born October 8, 1936, died May 27, 2026.

Elizabeth Ann Reece (“Betty”) of Grants Pass, Oregon, passed away surrounded by the love of her family. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion, friendship, hospitality, and unwavering love that touched generations.

Betty was born in Grants Pass, Oregon with a spirited personality that remained with her throughout her life. Her family moved to Bend when she was very young, and she and her family ended up in Roseburg at around age 13. She married the love of her life, Roger Reece, at just 18 years old, beginning a partnership that would define much of her life and create a family that became her greatest joy. Together they raised three children: David, Sheryl (until age 4), and Bruce.

After moving to Grants Pass in 1970 she and Roger became longtime residents of Grants Pass. Betty assisted Roger in his surveying/engineering business for many years, and they were very active in the community. She enjoyed bowling, playing bridge and of course, golf. Betty was a proud member of the Grants Pass Golf Club for more than 30 years. Golf brought her many friendships and countless memories. Even after she was no longer able to play, she remained active and social, enjoying regular bridge games with friends who treasured her company.

Betty never met a stranger. She had a remarkable gift for making friends wherever she went, whether at the golf course, a winery, or in her own neighborhood. She loved gathering with family and friends, sharing good food, good conversation, and often a glass of red wine. Her home was a place where everyone felt welcome, cared for, and loved.

Those who knew Betty knew she loved fiercely and spoke honestly. She never hesitated to share her opinions, but her directness was matched by her generosity, loyalty, and encouragement. She was one of her family’s biggest supporters, always interested in the lives of those she loved and genuinely invested in their successes and happiness.

Betty adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and took immense pride in their accomplishments. She delighted in hearing about their lives, cheering them on, and staying connected through regular phone calls and visits. Her grandchildren remember summers spent swimming in her pool, family gatherings filled with laughter, and a grandmother who could be strict when needed but always made sure everyone knew they were deeply loved.

She was also anything but a typical grandmother. An avid sports fan, Betty could often be found with a game on television, enthusiastically cheering for her favorite teams and especially Oregon State Beaver athletes who made it to the professional ranks. Her passion for sports, combined with her sharp wit and lively personality, made her unforgettable.

Even as her mobility declined, Betty’s instinct was always to care for others. She found joy in making sure her family was comfortable, fed, entertained, and surrounded by love. Her kindness, determination, humor, and fierce devotion to family remained constant throughout her life.

Betty is survived by her children, David and wife Nancy, and Bruce and wife Danielle; her beloved grandchildren Alexandra, Devin, David, Kaylee, Jonathan and Clay and nine great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Roger, whom she loved deeply and missed dearly.

Those who loved Betty find comfort knowing she is now reunited with Roger and at peace in the presence of her Savior. She will be remembered for her strength, her hospitality, her fierce love, her laughter, and the countless ways she made those around her feel special.

She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Please share a memory of Elizabeth in her Guestbook.