Betty Ann Matson

Betty Ann Matson, age 72, was born on December 8, 1953, in Baldwin Park, California, and was called home to be with Jesus on February 6, 2026.

Betty was the loving wife of Chuck Matson; devoted mother of Randy Afshar; and cherished mother-in-law to Melissa Afshar. She was a proud grandmother to Nikol Afshar and great-grandmother to Emily Willingham and Blair Rogers. Betty is also survived by her nephew, John Duessent, his wife Tyana Duessent, great nephew John Duessent Jr.; sisters-in-law Fran Matson, her husband Mike Sadowski, and Peg Konek; brother-in-law Warren Matson his wife Maggie Matson; son-in-law Matt Matson, his wife Jenny Matson, their sons Andrew Matson and Daniel Matson; several loving family members; and her dear friend, Dorinda Bessinger.

She was preceded in death by her former husband, Arlo Wade; her parents, Joe and Gladys (Beeman) Garrett; and her siblings, Patty Williams and Bub Garrett.

Betty loved her family and friends deeply and was always someone others could count on. After high school, she attended beauty school and worked as a hairdresser. She later spent many years crafting and selling her handmade items at the Tanque Verde Swap Meet in Tucson, Arizona.

In recent years, Betty found joy in painting small rocks she lovingly called “pocket hugs.” She placed many of them in the rock garden at Banner Cancer Center, finding happiness in knowing that someone might discover one and feel comforted. Betty also volunteered with AmeriCorps VISTA, where she taught English to individuals who spoke little to no English, helping others build confidence and opportunity.

After moving to Arizona, Betty met Arlo Wade, and they married and built a comfortable life together until tragedy struck when Arlo, working in the copper mine in San Manuel, was killed in an unfortunate cave-in. Their son Randy, who was serving in the United States Air Force at the time, had promised his father he would complete 20 years of service—a promise he proudly kept, making his mother very proud.

Later in life, Betty met Chuck, and together they moved to Wisconsin. During their eight years there, Betty enjoyed traveling to Alaska and Guam to visit her son. She also volunteered at the Milwaukee County Zoo, where her warm personality made her a perfect fit. Betty especially loved serving as Mrs. Claus during the holidays, delighting children with her joyful and convincing spirit.

Betty and Chuck eventually returned to San Manuel, Arizona, where they lived until cancer struck in late 2022. Throughout her illness, Betty never lost her faith in God. She passed peacefully on February 6, 2026, at Peppi’s House at TMC, surrounded by compassionate care.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Junaid Arshad of Banner Cancer Center, Dr. Eric Cornidez of Pain Institute of Southern Arizona, and Nurse Practitioner Vanica Caswell. Their exceptional care and genuine love brought great comfort to Betty and her family during her final journey.