Elizabeth (Betty) was born to Dorothy and Clarkson Long, MD in Detroit, MI, February 17, 1927. Her sister Jean Conklin preceded her in death. Betty graduated from public school with honors and the Science Award. Betty married Richard Souder (died 1989) in 1952. Together they had two daughters who have families: Diane Souder of Albuquerque NM, Planner and Ranger at Petroglyph National Monument married to Jim Graf with daughters Emily and Rachel; and Lori Souder of South Hadley MA, United Church of Christ Minister, married to Winston Baldwin with children Eliza, Thomas, Victoria and Kathryn. Beloved nieces and a nephew are living.

Betty attended Albion College as a premed student, was President of Alpha Phi Omega Sorority, active in the Biology and Chemistry Clubs and Paneletic Association. She graduated with honors in 1948 and attended University of Michigan Medical School for one year. Betty earned her Master’s in Biochemistry from Wayne State University. Following graduation she worked as a biochemist and bacteriologist for an army study on germ and chemical warfare.

Betty lived in Birmingham MI for 20 years; the family hosted AFS students from Yugoslavia and Cambodia. Betty and Dick moved from Birmingham to Los Alamos in 1981 where Dick worked for the Los Alamos Lab and was the co-founder of the Los Alamos Big Band. Betty worked at Bandelier as a Volunteer In the Parks for many years; served on the Arts Center Board as President and Secretary; participated in numerous committees at the United Church of Los Alamos and as a Stephen Minister led religious services at Sombrillo. Betty was President of Alpha Chi Alumni in Michigan and Santa Fe.

Particularly Betty loved travel and planning trips with family and friends in the US and abroad. She was a sculptor, painter, weaver, sewer, and knitter. She enjoyed water and snow skiing, hiking, backpacking, and photography. With family and friends she enjoyed an active life entertaining and decorating her home.

Betty was generous with her love to all. A Celebration of Life will be Feb 25 at the United Churches of Los Alamos at 2pm. Interment will be at 2/26 at 10:30am at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Los Alamos Visiting Nurses, United Church of Los Alamos, or the charity of your choice.

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