Betsy was originally diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998. She had two young children at home but underwent chemotherapy, surgery, and many other treatments to fight the disease. She became weak and lost her hair. But she remained strong. Betsy was declared cancer free. She lived her life without interruption for several years. However Betsy's cancer eventually returned. It had metastasized to other parts of her body including her bones and lungs. She began treatment again and fought for many years. She retired from her career and stayed home to focus on her health. Betsy fought every day of her life and although she was afraid and in pain, she never stopped living. In 2011 Betsy decided to stop her chemotherapy treatments and let the cancer run it's course. Before her death she was able to witness her daughter get married and graduate from college (in 2011). As Betsy's body deteriorated she still managed to enjoy small moments of joy. One warm day in January, 2012 Betsy sat on her porch swing for hours talking with her daughter. Finally on January 11, 2012 Betsy, struggling to breathe, was taken to the hospice Unit of Presbyterian Kaseman Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She was made comfortable and rested peacefully. Friends and relatives gathered to say their goodbyes. Betsy was able to speak some for the first few days. She told everyone she loved them. Eventually she slipped into unconsciousness. After 5 days in the hospital, Betsy's battle ended. At 2:47 am on Monday January 16, 2012 Betsy passed away peacefully. She was holding the hands of her sister and daughter. A funeral was held and her ashes were spread at Indian Creek in the Pecos Wilderness, New Mexico.

As a young woman Betsy held several jobs in many fields. At one point she worked for the human services department. When she had children Betsy stepped back from her career to care for her two young children. When they got older Betsy took a part-time job at a Jcpenney's call center. At this time she returned to college to obtain her teaching licensure. Upon completing her education Betsy took a position at Rio Rancho High school as a special education teacher. She worked with all grades and levels for 7 years before retiring due to health issues. Betsy adored her job as a teacher and was well-loved by her students and co-workers. She recalled those 7 years as some of her happiest.

Betsy attended the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. She was a good student and joined several campus organizations. Betsy became a member of Campus Crusades for Christ. There she made friends and attended trips to places such as Disneyland. Betsy would go on to obtain her bachelors degree. Many years later she would complete a masters in computer sciences and a teaching licensure in Special Education

Betsy was the youngest of three children. Her family moved around the state, sometimes following work for her father. She lived in many cities including Santa Fe, Belen, Carlsbad, and Albuquerque. She had fond memories of her home, school and friends in Carlsbad. Betsy had a happy childhood surrounded by a loving family. She was an avid reader and was talented in many subjects in school. She attended Del Norte High School in Albuquerque, NM. Betsy enjoyed riding her bike in her neighborhood and driving and visiting with friends. She was quite popular and attended many school events. Betsy graduated from high school in 1975.

Betsy Elaine Goehring was born on December 7, 1957 to Sally and Richard Goehring. She was born in "the cradle home" in Santa Fe, New Mexico