Obituary of Betty Jane Claymore

Betty J. Claymore, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and esteemed professional, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2024, at the age of 88. She leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and unwavering commitment to others.

Betty was born on April 24, 1935, in Ashland, Wisconsin, to Philip and Gertrude (Acker) Halls. She spent her formative years surrounded by the natural beauty of her family's resort on the Chippewa Flowage before moving to Hayward as a school girl to pursue her education. A graduate of Hayward High School in 1953, Betty went on to achieve academic excellence, earning a degree in Sociology from William and Mary College in Virginia in 1957.

Driven by her passion for understanding and helping others, Betty furthered her education, obtaining a Master's degree in Social Work from UW-Madison in 1960. Her thirst for knowledge and dedication to her field led her to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical Psychology from Union College in Ohio in 1978.

In 1965, Betty married her beloved husband, James (Jim) Claymore, embarking on a 43-year journey filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures. Together, they traveled the country, danced through life's joys, and passionately supported their favorite sports teams until Jim's passing in 2008.

Betty's distinguished career with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Services spanned over four decades, reflecting her deep commitment to serving others. From the 1950s onward, she dedicated herself to working with various tribes across the country, leaving an indelible mark on communities in Wisconsin, South Dakota, Alaska, North Dakota, and Tennessee.

A woman of boundless energy and curiosity, Betty approached life with a zest that inspired all who knew her. Whether strumming her ukulele, sharing her passion for fossils, or discovering the latest culinary gems and musical performances, Betty embraced each moment with infectious enthusiasm.

Her adventurous spirit and genuine love for life created cherished memories for her grandchildren, who fondly recall her as the catalyst for countless adventures and stories that will endure for generations.

Above all, Betty valued honesty and integrity, instilling in her children and grandchildren the importance of authenticity and compassion. She imparted her love of music, strong work ethic, and empathetic nature, empowering them to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Betty Claymore's passing leaves a void in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her, yet her spirit of adventure, resilience, and perpetual curiosity will continue to inspire and guide us.

She is survived by her children David (Judith) Berard and Vickie Claymore, grandchildren Dan (Carolyn) Berard, Amanda (Tom) Long, Phillip (Sonia McLeod) Berard, Shelby Lahammer and Samantha Lahammer, her great-grandchildren James & Henry Berard, Lydia and Juniper Long, and Felix Berard. She is also survived by her husband Jim's children, Mike (Jean) Claymore, Debra Claymore-Cuny, Janet (Duane) Claymore-Ross, Connie (Don) Schlotthauer and their respective children, and grandchildren and a host of cherished friends and colleagues who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held at the Black Hills National Cemetery on April 26, 2024, where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Jim.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to organizations supporting mental health awareness and indigenous communities, causes that were dear to Betty's heart.