Celebrating 100 Years of Betty Winifred Button-Winchester

100 years of memories, adventure, family, faith, and a life beautifully lived.

On September 29, we are incredibly honored to celebrate a very special milestone for our Everest at Oceanside resident since 2017: Betty Winifred Button-Winchester’s 100th birthday!

Born in Madison, Wisconsin, on September 29, 1926, Betty has spent the past century filling her life with family, adventure, travel, and countless memories.

A Life Full of Adventure

Betty’s story is one that could easily fill the pages of a book.

During World War II, Betty was accepted to join a professional women’s baseball team, much like the teams portrayed in the movie A League of Their Own. However, her father insisted that she attend college instead. Betty went on to attend the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee.

In 1947, Betty married William “Bill” Winchester, DVM, on September 27—just two days before her 21st birthday. The newlyweds immediately headed west for California, where Bill opened his first veterinary clinic. Betty helped run the clinic alongside him as they began their life together.

Together, Betty and Bill raised four children in just five years. Their family has since grown to include seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A World of Experiences

Betty and Bill shared a love of travel and service that took them around the world.

Beginning in the 1970s, they traveled to China seven times. Bill was part of a team that taught microsurgery on animals to Chinese doctors, and Betty accompanied him on these incredible journeys.

The couple also participated in numerous missionary trips over the years, including a trip to the Havasupai community at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

And in 1992, Betty and Bill celebrated their marriage in a truly unforgettable way: they renewed their wedding vows at Winchester Cathedral in England.

Family, Memories & the Things She Loves

Family has always been at the heart of Betty’s life.

She spent many years scrapbooking with her daughters and developed a deep interest in genealogy. Her love of preserving family history led her to create genealogy books for each of her children and grandchildren—a lasting gift that helps keep generations of family stories alive.

Today, Betty enjoys playing card games, going out to restaurants, solving crossword puzzles, and cheering on the San Diego Padres.

But there is one companion who holds a particularly special place in her heart: her beloved cat, Cali. ❤️

And if you know Betty, you know that every morning begins in style. She gets dressed in her fashionable clothes and accessories before making her way down to breakfast—a wonderful reflection of her personality and the way she continues to embrace each new day.

A Century Worth Celebrating

A century is more than a milestone. It is a collection of stories, relationships, adventures, challenges, laughter, and memories that span generations.

At Everest at Oceanside, we feel incredibly honored to have Betty as part of our community. It is a privilege to celebrate this extraordinary milestone alongside her and to have the opportunity to be part of the next chapter of her remarkable story. We are grateful for the joy, warmth, and history she brings to our community each day.

Today, we celebrate Betty not only for reaching 100 years, but for the incredible life she has built along the way—and for all the lives she has touched.

Happy 100th Birthday, Betty! 🥳💐

May your special day be filled with the people you love, plenty of laughter, wonderful memories, and, of course, a little time with Cali.

Here’s to 100 years of Betty! ❤️