Beverly ‘Betty’ Jean Shamberger
June 11, 1945 – July 14, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Beverly “Betty” Jean Shamberger, who left us on July 14, 2025, at the age of 80. Betty was surrounded by her son, Jimmy, and her companion, Brian, at the time of her passing.

Born on June 11, 1945, in Arcata, CA, Betty was the daughter of Elmer and Mildred Steeves. She was the second oldest of four siblings—Robert “Bob” Steeves, Barbara Jones, and Elmer Steeves—and was raised in McKinleyville, CA. As a child, Betty spent countless hours playing in her Uncle Frankie’s barn with her siblings and double cousins Patty, Carol, and Nancy. She also loved riding her horse, Nashawa, and developed a deep connection with nature that stayed with her throughout her life.

Betty graduated from McKinleyville High School, where she met her husband, James “Jim” Shamberger. Together, they built a loving family with two sons, John and Jimmy. Betty was a devoted wife to Jim and a loving mother to her boys. She took special care of her son, John, until his untimely passing from heart complications at the age of 19. Her love for her family, especially her sons, knew no bounds.

Betty was incredibly proud of her Native American heritage and was a proud member of the Karuk Indian Tribe. Her culture and traditions were integral to her identity, and she shared this pride with her family and community.

Throughout her life, Betty dedicated herself to helping others. She worked for many years as a teacher’s aide in Woodland, CA, before taking on a new role as a relief manager at Motel 6, traveling around Northern California. Betty also cherished spending time with her family, especially on hunting and fishing trips to Idaho with her husband and son, where they were welcomed by long-time friends John and Tina Otazua.

Betty’s heart was always open to her loved ones, and she spent much of her life contributing to her community. She was a constant source of support for her family, always there with a helping hand, a kind word, or a thoughtful gesture.

She leaves behind her son, Jimmy, and his wife Rochelle; her beloved grandsons, John Shamberger and Jacob Ralls; her great-grandsons, Jack Shamberger and Matthew Ralls; her sister Barbara Jones and her husband Steve; her brother Elmer Steeves and his wife Sharon; her sister-in-law Linda Hudson and her husband Stan; her sister-in-law Darlene Steeves; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

A very special thank you is extended to Barbara Jones, whose financial support was invaluable, and to sister-in-law Pat Shamberger, who lovingly assisted both Betty and Jim in their final days.

Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim; her son, John; her brother, Bob Steeves; and her brothers-in-law, Gary and Bob Shamberger.

A graveside service will be held on August 23, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Greenwood Cemetery, where Betty will be laid to rest. Her nephew, Nathan Steeves, will perform the eulogy, honoring her life and legacy.

Betty will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her love, warmth, and generosity will forever remain in our hearts. May she rest in peace.

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