Merle “Betty” Elizabeth Whitford was born in Harlowton, MT on June 19, 1940. She passed away on August 15, 2020 in Columbus, MT. Betty spent her youth growing up in Harlowton, Big Timber, and Greycliff. She met Harold Whitford at Eaton’s Inn where she was waitressing. They married January 31, 1958. Betty went back to school and graduated from Reed Point High School with Harold’s sister, Leila Beckhardt and nephew, Larry Guy Terrel. Betty is preceded in death by her father, Lloyd Daniels; mother, Elizabeth Lovilla Riley; brothers, Roy and Mike Daniels. And infant sons, Harold Jon and James Ronald. Betty is survived by her husband Harold, son Kevin, daughter Lisa, niece/daughter Raina VanLuchen. Sisters Rosa, Rachel, and Patti; Sister-inlaw and very special friend Leila; brother-in-laws Gary and Richard. She will also be missed by her very dear friend Clarice Thompson and numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, August 22, at Betty and Harold’s residence with a potluck style luncheon to follow. Graveside services will take place on Sunday, August 23 at 10 am.