Betty Lou "Schmidt" Goodman

Betty Lou “Schmidt” Goodman, cherished wife, mother, sister, grandma, great-grandma, and friend, passed away suddenly June 20, 2025, at the age of 90 years. Born in Hazleton, North Dakota, February 20, 1935, to Ted and Emma Gunderson-Schmidt.

The family came west after losing their home in a fire, went to Washington where they picked hops for a short time, but came back to Montana, living in Red Lodge and then Billings. Graduated 1953 from Billings Senior High School. Worked at Mountain Bell four years. She was the big sister to Bernice and Richard “Butch.” All three were constantly playing shenanigans on each other their whole lives, but held a close bond. She and Bernice loved spending time together shopping (actually gambling), and the sisters kept a watchful eye on Richard.

Mom and Dad were married in Columbus, Montana, on June 23, 1956, and built a family with loyalty and LOVE. She was most proud of her role as our mother, and family was very important to her. She never missed out on an event as her children were growing up, and that continued for her grandchildren. She loved the simple things in life, like scorekeeping for baseball, the color purple, playing Keno, Jeopardy, and the trips with Dad to Nevada. Bowling was also a joy for Mom, where many lifelong friendships were made. She loved going camping and fishing, and always kept the “campfire burning.” She looked forward to every celebration we could be together, whether it be a barbecue dinner, family reunions, or butterball soup on Christmas Eve. One of her favorite sayings was, “Everything is just fine.”

She is survived by her loving husband, Jim, of 69 years; son, Randy; daughter, Cindy (Ron) Staley; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren, (whom she is very proud of); brother, Richard Schmidt; and sister-in-law, Caroline Lenhardt, as well as her nieces and nephews, who are very important to her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Emma and Ted Schmidt, and sister and brother-in-law, Bernice and Sam Sparr. Cremation has taken place and a small family gathering at a later date per her wishes. 

We all will miss her smile and giggle. We love you, Mom.