Betty Nesmith

Betty Ann Stokke Nesmith died on October 14, 2025, at the age of 94. She was born on August 8, 1931 in Livingston, Montana, the only child of Martin and Irma Thorson Stokke. Her father Martin was sheep foreman for the Charlie Bair Ranch in Martinsdale. Betty grew up in the various ranch houses and camps shadowed by the Crazy Mountains. She loved the outdoors, especially fishing and her infamous flower gardens.

Betty Ann was a graduate of Rocky Mountain College and remained a devoted alumni throughout her adult life. She loved the college, the lifelong friends she made there, and the positive impact Rocky has made on the Billings community. Betty Ann worked as a medical technologist at Deaconess Hospital (Billings Clinic) her entire career.

Betty Ann married Paul Nesmith at the small Presbyterian Church in White Sulphur Springs. Of their union, they had 3 children; Martin, Paula, and Lura. They made their home in Billings; Betty was able to remain in the family home for 65 years. 

Betty was fiercely independent. She was the epitome of the good old Norwegian heritage; stubborn, direct, dependable. She was devoted to First Presbyterian Church and served the church family wherever needed. She was committed to “Global Village,” a gift store that was started in 1987 to provide direct support to women artists, craftsman in third world countries. Betty volunteered there for 40 years. Betty was also a member of Presbyterian Women, PEO, the Graduates, Rocky Mountain College Alumni, Church Women United and supported a number of charities.

In retirement, she traveled the world with her friend Nancy; visiting Africa, Peru, Hawaii, Europe, Norway. She never dreamed a ranch girl from remote Montana would be blessed to visit the places she just read about in books.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband Paul, son Martin, and son-in-law David Ketterling.

Betty is survived by her daughter Lura (Ty) Hale and their three children, Brenna (Rob), Kaelee, and Trey; daughter Paula Ketterling and sons Chase and Bryce. She had a special bond with great grand daughter Charlotte and didn’t have the chance to meet the latest great grandson Camden. 

She often spoke of how blessed she was to have her family so close. Betty Ann was the spiritual and physical strength of our family. She prayed and studied the Word daily. She lived her faith through her words and works of kindness. 

A visitation will be held from 5 - 7 pm on Friday, October 17, 2025 at Dahl Funeral Chapel. A Funeral Service will be held at 10 am on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests gifts to Global Village, First Presbyterian Church, or Rocky Mountain College.