Betty Mae passed unexpectedly Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at the age of 81. Betty was born in the old Dixon Hotel in downtown Dixon to Frank and Betty Torchia on May 9, 1941.
She graduated from Dixon High School in June of 1959. Throughout her teenage years Betty worked various jobs in town. She worked at Seifert’s Bakery, The Frosty, the Dixon Theater, the Giant Orange, and many babysitting jobs.
Betty married Jim Nielson in November of 1959. They were married 64 years. Betty was a very devoted, loving, and supportive wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Betty enjoyed quilting, reading, embroidering and crocheting. She loved hummingbirds, giraffes and hedgehogs.
She worked for the Dixon Unified School District for 32 years where she touched the lives of many students and made lifelong friends with the staff.
Betty was extremely involved in her community. She was a member of the Dixon Women's Improvement Club and a proud supporter of the Dixon Historical Society and Museum.
Betty Mae was a compassionate, loving, good hearted, giving woman to her family and friends. She has touched many hearts through the years with her handmade crocheted handkerchiefs and thoughtful hand quilted pocket prayers. Betty found joy by making others feel good and loved with her thoughtful and caring gestures.
Betty will be missed and remembered for her incredible baking skills that many got to enjoy. She loved sharing packages of her delicious waffle cookies, and wonderful strawberry banana cakes.
Her family and friends are so blessed and thankful for the wonderful memories and good times that they have enjoyed with her. Although she was taken to incredibly soon, her sweet soul, loving heart, gentle touch, and bright warm smile will forever be remembered and missed.
She rests in heaven with her parents Frank and Betty Torchia, and her Husband Jim Nielson. She is survived by her daughter Debbie Hart and husband Ted, son Matt Nielson and wife AnnMarie. Grandchildren Natalie Hart, Tyler Hart and wife Amber, Brett Nielson, his girlfriend Olivia Ramirez, Macy Nielson. Great grandchildren Charlotte and Walter Hart. Her sisters Carol Torchia, Patty Jensen and husband Joel. Her brother Jeff Torchia and wife Janice.
A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, March 21st at 10am at Milton Carpenter Funeral home followed by a graveside service at Silveyville Cemetery in Dixon.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Dixon Women's Improvement Club and Dixon Historical Society and Museum.
