Beth Ann Applegate

Beth Ann Applegate 

*1939 – 2024*

Beth Ann Applegate, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, teacher, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed away on November 3, 2024, in Nuevo, California, at the age of 85. She was born on March 19, 1939, in Heber, Utah, to George and Alda Strebel. As the oldest of four children, Beth Ann grew up in a close-knit family with her siblings, Andrew, Hilma, and James, who survive her.

Beth Ann married James Applegate on April 12, 1968, and together they raised four children: Jamie, James (Derik), Christopher, and Brook. Beth Ann and James were married for 49 years before her beloved husband passed away on 2017. She was a devoted mother who took great joy in raising her children and later in watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. Her love for her family was immeasurable, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones.

Beth Ann was passionate about education and spent many years as an elementary school teacher in Roswell, New Mexico. She taught at Flora Vista (Nancy Lopez), East Grand Plains, Valley View, and Saint Andrews Episcopal schools, where she touched the lives of countless students with her kindness, dedication, and enthusiasm for learning. She always created a sense of community with her classes. She knew she did her job in the classroom if her student left her classroom with a love for books and reading. She loved teaching and was known for her warm, caring approach to every child she encountered.

In addition to her professional work, Beth Ann was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and her faith was an integral part of her life. Beth Ann served a full-time mission to the Bavaria Germany Mission, where she gained a love for the German people and the gospel of Jesus Christ. She served in many capacities over the years, including as a Primary teacher, Seminary teacher, Gospel Doctrine teacher, Relief Society presidencies and in the Primary presidency. She also devoted time to serving in the Albuquerque, New Mexico Temple and worked diligently in the Church's genealogy library. Beth Ann loved to serve others and found great joy in her church callings, always striving to uplift and strengthen those around her.

Outside of her work and service, Beth Ann had many hobbies and interests that brought her joy. She was an avid painter and photographer, especially enjoying capturing moments of her grandchildren at play. She always felt her grandchildren were old friends the moment her grandchildren were born. Her photography reflected her love for life and her ability to see beauty in the everyday.

Beth Ann is survived by her children Jamie (husband Ross Fischer), Derik (wife Lynn James), Christopher, and Brook (husband Jason Fowler); her siblings Andrew, Hilma, and James; her grandchildren: Patrick, Allie, Marie, Avery, Dante, Devyn, Aubré, Emalie, Katheryne, James, Laura (Beth), Daniel, Alyxibeth, and Samantha; as well as 9 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss her greatly.

A funeral service to celebrate Beth Ann’s life will be held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 11:30 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 2201 Country Club Road, Roswell, New Mexico. A viewing will be held from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Monday, November 11, 2024 at Ballard Funeral Home. All who knew and loved her are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Beth Ann’s memory.

Beth Ann’s life was defined by her love for her family, her passion for teaching, and her unwavering faith and service in her church. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the kindness, love, and joy she shared with all who knew her.