Betty Jane Nelson
MOUNT VERNON — Betty Jane Nelson, 85, of Mount Vernon passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, Jan. 10, 2008, at Knox Community Hospital in Mount Vernon.
She was born Dec. 13, 1922, at Ridgway, Pa., a daughter of the late Harry and Hazel (Kline) Hayes. After graduating from high school, Betty enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving during World War II and earning the rank of master sergeant, before being honorably discharged. On Sept. 16, 1949, Betty married Cecil W. Nelson and then in 1950, Betty and Cecil moved to Mount Vernon to be closer to her aunt and uncle, Florence and Frank Benson.
Betty was a member of the Gay Street United Methodist Church where she was active in the Varsity Sunday School and the Dorcas Circle. Betty enjoyed playing bridge and was active with TOPS. Betty was a retired administrative assistant for Bechtel Incorporated. She was also the First Certified Professional Secretary in Mount Vernon.
Betty is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, Cecil W. Nelson; and a son, Gary A. Nelson of Tomball, Texas.
In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by a brother, Ed Hayes; and her beloved aunt and uncle, Florence and Frank Benson.
The family will receive friends Sunday, Jan. 13, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Flowers-Snyder Funeral Home in Mount Vernon. Funeral services will be held Monday, Jan. 14, at 10:30 a.m. at the Gay Street United Methodist Church, 18 N. Gay St., Mount Vernon, with the Rev. Dr. David Baker officiating. Burial will follow in the Mound View Cemetery in Mount Vernon with military gaveside service provided by the Knox County Joint Veterans Council.
Memorial contributions may be made in Betty’s memory to the Gay Street United Methodist Church Living Memorial Fund, 18 N. Gay St., Mount Vernon. To express an online condolence to the family visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.

