Katharyn Elizabeth "Betsy" (Fell) Demaree  

February 12, 1938- October 26, 2015. Betsy Demaree peacefully went to be with our Lord and Savior Monday evening, October 26, in the comfort of her home surrounded by family. She was the daughter of Katharyn Hoadley Fell and John Ellis Fell.

She graduated from Kokomo High School in 1955 where she enjoyed writing, choir, and theater with a leading role in the Hullabaloo! Friend Mildred Kern was director and gave her the part because she thought Betsy and Del Demaree would make a cute couple. She was right, as they were eventually married for 49 years!

After attending DePauw and Indiana University, Betsy dedicated her life fully to caring for her family and friends. She was active and held l eadership roles in Kappa Kappa Gamma, Tri-Kappa, P.E.O., Symposium, Thursday Study Club, Cheer Guild, and the Kokomo Symphonic Board. Betsy loved to entertain her friends, thoughtfully creating beautiful settings for all to feel welcomed and loved.

Betsy loved Lake Maxinkuckee where a lifetime of memories took place- skiing, sailing, singing on 'mama' rides and cooking wonderful meals for her family and friends. In the mornings, she listened with love to whoever joined her on the screened-in porch for coffee.

Her gardens were another favorite retreat. The variety of flowers, vegetables, and incredible number of daffodils that dotted the woods each spring were a reminder of her love of the outdoors-always making sure the birds and deer were cared for as well.

Betsy's love of nature and beauty were equally cultivated through her love of literature, art, and world travel. She was an avid reader, always engaged and informed- ready for good conversation. Betsy had a fun-loving, competitive spirit as well, enjoying tennis, cards, football, and IU basketball. She grew up following her father in the garden and later dedicated many years to the floral industry with her husband. She was grateful for the many meaningful friendships formed during her years in the industry.

Finally, good music brought Betsy great joy! From hymns to symphonies, she loved it all. The Kokomo Symphony, Broadway shows, Kathryn Conner's talents at Grace Church, Annie's piano practice, the Sitka Music Festival and Naples Philharmonic were some of her favorites.

Betsy was a witty, fun-loving lady who genuinely and generously loved others. Through her love, kindness, and attention to detail, she gave us much to celebrate!

Betsy is survived by her five children, sixteen grandchildren, and two siblings. Siblings- Ruth Anne Keedy and Robert Fell. Children- Martha and Trip Demaree (Jack, Adam, Sam, and great grandson Christopher), Laura and Larry Shinall (Mac Wilson, Dan, Austin, Michael), Elizabeth and John Demaree (Andrew, Joe, Bob, John), Anne and Bob Chadwick (Maddy and Miles), Sarah and David Clark (Kit, Margaret, John).

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 8, 2015, at Grace United Methodist Church, 219 West Mulberry Street, Kokomo, with Pastor Bud Probasco officiating.

Visiting hours with the family are from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory, 1315 West Lincoln Road, Kokomo.

Messages of condolence may be left online at www. shirleyandstout. com.