Elizabeth Usher

Usher, Elizabeth "Betty" MADISON/OREGON-Elizabeth "Betty" Usher, of Madison, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 2, 2009, after a long slow decline. She was born on Aug.13, 1925, daughter of Frank Sweeney and Louva Chappel, Oregon, Wis. Betty graduated from Oregon High School in 1943 with honors, proficient in music, forensics and writing. She earned a degree in communications arts from Northwestern University and the University of Wisconsin. Betty married Glenn Usher, construction engineer, Marshall Erdman Co., Richardson, Texas branch. He preceded her in death in October 1982. She taught remedial classes and music in Madison Public Schools in the 60s. For years, Betty volunteered her services for assisting the elderly. She had a highly creative nature, keen sense of humor and deep compassion for humanity. Betty was well cared for by her long time physician, Dr. Jim Shropshire and and the caring staff at Karmenta Center, her home since 2003. Betty is survived by son, Fred Usher of Sausalito, Calif.; daughter, Sara Usher (Michael Kamen) of Oakland Calif.; and son, Jim Usher (Pam Hava) of Albany, Calif.; grandchildren, Steve Usher, Ben Goff, and Arielle and Noah Usher; great- grandchildren, Sabina Goff Barnett-Dyer, Adrienne Usher and Aden Usher; sister-in-law, Madelyn Sweeney of Longview, Texas; sister-in-law, Louise Usher of Potomac, Md.; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; brother, Art Sweeney; sister, Margaret Gannett; brothers-in-law, Dick Usher and Ned Usher; and sister-in-law, Mary Usher. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at HOLY MOTHER OF CONSOLATION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 651 N. Main St., Oregon, at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 6, 2009, with Father Bill Connell presiding. Visitation will be at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be at St. Marys Cemetery, Oregon.