Betty Beatrice Marquez Gonzales was born on June 29, 1936, to Manuel Marquez and Victoria Chavez. She was the second of nine children and was raised in a loving, hardworking family rooted in faith, prayer, responsibility, and service.

Betty spent part of her childhood in Monterrey, Mexico, where she attended school, met her grandparents Rafaela and Macario, and embraced her culture, language, and traditions. Her grandmother Sofia Marquez Hurtado held a special place in her heart, nurturing her from birth and teaching her the importance of prayer and family. After returning to Santa Fe, Betty graduated from Santa Fe High School in 1956 and later from Santa Fe Community College, From a young age, Betty developed a strong work ethic, working as a babysitter, house cleaner, medical receptionist, and waitress at La Cocina Restaurant, where she met Alfred L. Gonzales.

Betty married Herman Gomez in 1956, and together they had three children: James, Yvonne, and Diane. In March 1961, she married her high school sweetheart, Alfred L. Gonzales, who lovingly accepted responsibility for her children. Together, Betty and Alfred had three children: Aaron, Jerome, and Angela.

A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and woman of deep faith, Betty gave generously of her time and talents. She taught religion for 12 years, served as Den Mother for Cub, Scouts Spanish dance teacher, cheerleading and little league coach, Betty volunteered with the Well Baby Clinic, Villa Theresa Clinic, and church outreach efforts to feed the homeless. As a Eucharistic Minister, she brought Communion to the homebound, nursing homes, and hospitals.

Betty worked in the medical field for 15 years and later served in the office of Governor Garrey Carruthers, where she was appointed Director of Constituent Services. She dedicated 25 years to MANA Del Norte, serving as Vice President, Scholarship Chair, and in community outreach. Through fundraising efforts, the organization awarded scholarships to Latina women pursuing their education.

Betty's life was marked by compassion, perseverance, and love. In retirement, she cared for her grandson David, helping him navigate health challenges and celebrate milestones, including honor roll achievements and graduation from Santa Fe High School in 2009.

Betty lived her life fully, guided by her belief that God has the final say and that nothing can keep a person from their destiny. She encouraged her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to love one another, let go of hurts, be merciful and kind, and walk their path with faith.

She will be remembered for her devotion to family, her service to others, her strength, her humility, and her unwavering faith. Her words of love and blessing remain with those who knew her: "Thank you for your love. I have always loved you. Be good to one another."