Elizabeth (Betty) Louise Oxley Langston, of Fort Myers, Florida, entered peacefully into the arms of the Lord on June 28, 2026, at the age of 99.

Born on October 23, 1926, to Henry Oxley and Freida Schiller Oxley, Betty and her sister Marilyn were raised in Jersey City, New Jersey. During World War II, she answered her nation’s call by working on airplanes in Rome, New York, becoming one of the proud women known as “Rosie the Riveter.” Her strength, determination, and dedication during those years reflected the qualities that would define her entire life.

Betty shared 73 years of marriage with her beloved husband, James Robert Langston Sr., until his passing in 2019. Together they built a remarkable family rooted in faith, love, service, and devotion. She was the cherished mother of eight daughters: Barbara, Bonnie, Beth, Bryan, Blake (deceased), Brett, Bernadette, and Brooke; and three sons: James Robert Langston Jr. (deceased), Bruce, and Bob. Her legacy continues through her 21 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren. She also opened her heart and home to more than ten foster children, extending her love far beyond her immediate family.

Betty’s faith was the keystone of her life, and prayer was her solace. She was a devoted and valued member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Fort Myers, where her steadfast faith guided her through every season of life. She dedicated herself to serving others in countless ways. She was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader for her young children, a Head Start teacher, and a longtime volunteer cookie baker for the Ronald McDonald House in Fort Myers, where she earned the affectionate nickname “Betty Crocker.”

An avid quilter and gardener, Betty found joy in nature and the outdoors. She loved poetry, literature, and gathering her family around board games. There was always a jigsaw puzzle spread across her table, inviting others to join her. Even at age 99, she remained a formidable Scrabble opponent, enjoyed the daily challenge of Wordle, and could easily FaceTime her children, embracing new technology with curiosity and determination.

Her love for her family was immeasurable. She faithfully remembered birthdays, never missing the opportunity to send cards to her children and their families. Her wisdom and guidance were often expressed through the sayings she lived by: “If a thing is worth doing, it’s worth doing well,” and “Offer it up to God.”

Betty leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, perseverance, and unconditional love. Her family and friends will remember her gentle strength, her generous spirit, and the countless ways she made everyone feel welcomed, cherished, and cared for. A Celebration of Betty’s life will be held on October 24, 2026, what would have been her 100th birthday weekend, as family and friends gather to honor and celebrate the extraordinary life of a woman whose love and faith touched generations.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Cecilia's Catholic Church in Fort Myers on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 11:30 am.