Betty J. Herron, 76, passed away March 14, 2009 in Lompoc, California, after a brief illness.

Born August 7, 1932 in Susanville, California, Betty was the youngest daughter of the late Uel J. and Bessie A. Travis. Upon moving to Lompoc in the mid-1950s, Betty taught grades 1-3 at Clarence Ruth and Hapgood Elementary Schools for 45 years. In 1965, she married the love of her life, Lt. Col. Joseph G. Herron, who passed away in 1989. An accomplished pianist, Betty shared her love of music with all of her students, and was famous for her Christmas programs with the kids at the Kiwanis. Betty enjoyed her retirement immensely, spending quality time with her beloved dog, her family and friends, and over the years she knit over 700 caps for underprivileged kids and cancer patients. Suddenly, the world has become an emptier place without her presence, her laughter, her wit and intellect, and her love.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Rebecca S. Herron, of Washington, Pennsylvania, her sister, Laura M. Frakes of Sherman Oaks, California, her sister, Naomi F. Robinson of Spokane Valley, Washington, her niece, JoAnn (Randy) Churchman of Lompoc, and several nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her devoted companion of 9 years, Riley the Wonder Dog

Services will be 10 a.m. March 19, 2009 at the chapel of Starbuck-Lind Mortuary. Burial will follow at Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery. Visitation hours will be 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the mortuary

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Betty's memory to Dogs Deserve Better (online at www.dogsdeservebetter.com/donations.html or P.O. Box 23, Tipton, PA 16684), or to your favorite animal welfare/rescue organization or shelter.