Betty H. "Betts" Shultz

Heaven just got a little bit more lively! On Friday, January 13, Betty Hoffman Shultz (Betts), 98, took the party upstairs, leaving behind her sons Steve and Tim, daughters-in-law, Diann, Susie and Louise, nephew Barry and niece Barbara, their spouses Diane and Harry, 6 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren. Those who knew her will never forget her feisty nature and the impact she had on the lives she touched and her community. Betts was born in Bernardsville, NJ, on April 5, 1918. Always one to take the road less traveled, she entered Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in September 1935, where she was one of only three women in her class. While acquiring her degree, she also acquired her beloved husband, classmate Walter W. Shultz, II. The two newlywed doctors, after earning their degrees and licenses, made their home in Lebanon, PA, building a busy practice, social life and family. Lebanon needed an outlet for creative expression, and Betts answered the call! Combining her talents for inspiring collaboration and fundraising, she worked with other like-minded residents to get the money together to establish the Lebanon Community Theatre. When the original location was destroyed by fire, she helped to re-establish the Theatre in its current location in the Red Barn adjacent to Stoever's Dam. She directed the first play in the new theater in 1975. In 1977, Betts took her advocacy efforts into the political arena and was elected to City Council where she served for two terms. A tireless debater of policy and relentless "hounder" of local politicians, some might say she never realized that she wasn't on City Council after her last term ended in 1985. One of her most treasured accomplishments during her tenure was saving Stoever's Dam Park for future generations to enjoy. Upon her arrival in Heaven, for which she will probably be late, Betts will be greeted by many whom she held dear. Among them will be her parents and brother, her husband and her two oldest sons, Walter III (Puggy) and Mike. Those who wish to celebrate the life and accomplishments of this remarkable woman are most welcome to join the family on February 18, 2017, at 7:00 p.m. at the Lebanon Community Theatre, East Maple Street and Theatre Drive, in Lebanon. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Lebanon Community Theatre or Stoever's Dam Park Friends.

Betty H. "Betts" Shultz

April 5, 1918 - January 13, 2017