Betty Ann Nichols went home to God on May 24, 2025, at Ava's House in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, at the age of 80.

Betty was born on July 2, 1944, in Hudson, South Dakota, to Roger and DeVona Warner. She grew up in Beresford, South Dakota, where she attended Beresford High School alongside her three sisters.

During her early years, she worked at Mac's Café in downtown Beresford, where her warmth and work  ethic were well known.

In 1965, Betty married Hal Hartwick and moved to Sioux Falls, where they raised four children: Tom Hartwick of Beresford, Pam Abbott of Sioux Falls, Bill Hartwick of Sioux Falls, and Scott Hartwick of Hartford.

In 1972, Betty married Johnny Downs and returned to Beresford. While Johnny operated his trucking company for 17 years, Betty spent some of that time working at Bethesda Nursing Home, continuing her lifelong tradition of caring for others.

Later in life, in 1991; Betty married Pat Nichols. Together they lived in Hazel Green, Wisconsin, before eventually returning to South Dakota.

Betty had a generous heart and an unwavering love for her family and community. She was known for her baking-always making enough to share with loved ones and just about everyone else in the tri-state area. Betty was fond of music, which she shared by playing the guitar and the piano. She also enjoyed playing cards, reading, watching the Hallmark Channel, spending time with family, and caring for her beloved cats and dogs.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Roger and DeVona Warner; her three husbands, Hal Hartwick, Johnny Downs, and Pat Nichols; her three sisters, Bonnie Jean Van Muyden, Karen Frank, and Dixie Thompson; and her grandson, Keegan Hartwick.

Betty is survived by her children: Tom (Karen) Hartwick, Pam Abbott, Bill Hartwick and friend Maria, and Scott (Janet) Hartwick; as well as her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy and pride. She is also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A graveside memorial service with refreshments will be held in Betty's honor at 10:00 a.m. on July 2, 2025 at Romsdal Lutheran Church, 29193 477th Ave, Hudson, South Dakota.

Betty's legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will live on in all who were blessed to know her.