Betty Neal Quesnel of Hampton, Virginia passed away on December 23rd at home, surrounded by family. She was 89 and is survived by her son Neal Quesnel and wife Nellie (Hampton, VA); daughter Debra Pearson and husband Tom (Franklin, VA); grandsons Neal Quesnel, Jr. (Virginia Beach, VA); Michael Quesnel and wife Michelle with great granddaughters Amanda and Alexa (Powder Springs, GA) and Carter Pearson (New York, NY).

A graveside service was held December 26, 2015 at Parklawn Memorial Cemetery where Betty was laid to rest beside her sweetheart and husband of 65 years.

Originally from Tremont, PA, Betty began her career in the typing pool at Fort Indiantown Gap in Lancaster, PA, processing German POWs. She was promoted quickly and reassigned to work at the new Pentagon in Washington, DC. At the end of the War, she transferred to Fort Monroe, VA where she met and married Bernard E. Quesnel, who passed away in late 2014. After Bernie enlisted in the Air Force, they moved to Florida, Nevada, Maine, New Mexico, France, and West Berlin, Germany. She continued her Civil Service career and received many commendations for her dedicated service to our country. After his return from Vietnam, Betty and Bernie resettled permanently in Hampton, VA.

Betty was full of life and joy. She and Bernie's Christmas parties were legendary among their friends and family for the jovial atmosphere, Bernie's Christmas ties, and Betty's punch. She was a phenomenal cook and taught three generations the beauty of family-style cooking through her dishes like "Italian Chicken" and Halupkies.

Betty was full of strength. While Bernie was away on tours to Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, she raised Neal and Debbie, worked full-time, participated in Church activities, and found time to become an ace bowler, never defeated by any of her grandchildren.

Betty was full of kindness. All of her grandchildren have stories about her generosity and spirit. From telling her original dragon bedtime stories, to teaching of the Lord's Prayer, to swimming lessons in the backyard pool, she led an extraordinary life that was full of purpose and love. She was the soul of her family and was always there to give you a shoulder to cry on, a pep talk, or a sandwich. Usually all three.

She was an example to all those around her and will be dearly missed.