Betty Marie Stuart, 89, of Columbus died Tuesday, Feb. 28 at St. Luke’s Hospital.  She was born on Nov. 11, 1922 in Houghton, Mich., the daughter of Earl and Anna Maria (Marie Fitzpatrick) Witz. She married Hugh D. Stuart on June 14, 1952 in Detroit. He preceded her in death in 1997.
Betty graduated from Mt. Clemens General Hospital School of Nursing in 1962 and worked many years in the nursing profession, most recently at the former Monroe Convalescent Center in Monroe, Mich. The Stuarts retired to Columbus in 1985. Betty is survived by her daughter, Lynne (Ronald) Zabawa of Temperance, Mich., and grandchildren, Amber (Ryan) Zuber of Antwerp, Ohio and Erin (Nick) Hearl of Samaria, Mich. She is also survived by her stepson, David (Susie) Stuart of Blue Jay, Calif., and great grandchildren, Raelynne and Kora Zuber and Clara and Oliver Hearl.
In addition to her husband, Betty was preceded in death by her sisters, Catherine (Jean) McLenahan of Hawaii and Grace Castor of Arizona.
An avid bird watcher, Betty will be remembered for her sense of humor and pride in her independence – traits that remained until her death.
McFarland Funeral Chapel is in charge of local arrangements.  An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com. A memorial service will be planned for a later date at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Ida, Mich., where memorials may be made.