BY TERRY MORSE, Big Bend Wildlife Sanctuary
Betsy Knight fought off more than one illness in her life, but I am afraid that she lost the battle this time. Betsy passed away around 11:30 this morning with her family by her side.
This was shock to many of us because we thought she was on the road to recovery. However, when she had planned surgery this week, the doctors discovered a mass that was cancerous and it had rapidly spread through her body.
Betsy Knight had a beautiful soul and dedicated her life to conservation and wildlife. She loved the outdoors and some of you may not know that every year in March she would go kayaking with friends and some of her grandchildren. She raised and rehabilitated many native animals during her years as the Director of Big Bend Wildlife Sanctuary. From all the stories I have heard, I don't think there is a species she hadn't cared for at one time or another.
If Betsy had to pick one accomplishment though, I think she would say she was most proud of the success she had with Florida Black Bears. She has raised or rehabilitated over 40 bears and returned them to all back the wild, even though she was told it couldn't be done. Few people told her no and if they did, it only made her WILL to prove them wrong all the stronger.
I will miss Betsy's stories and her wealth of knowledge. I hope I can continue her legacy with wildlife as many others are already doing. Betsy knew more about the natural history of each animal than I could ever hope to know. But mostly I will miss Betsy.
Thank you all for your prayers for Betsy and her family. The schedule for services has not been determined yet, but I will post that information as soon as I get it. I know Betsy had so many friends and I hope I have reached all of them either through phone calls, FWRA, Facebook or email but if anyone thinks of someone that might not know please pass this information on to them. I attached 2 of my favorite photos of Betsy.
Terry
NEWS ALERT - Calhoun County Woman Dedicated To Wildlife Passes Away
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#1
Phyllis Lord
on
02/17/12 at 04:39 PM
[Reply]
I am still sitting here in shock. There will never be another Betsy, she gave all of herself to the betterment of any animal that she came in contact with. Wondering what is going to happen the next time I find a wounded animal or an orphaned baby. I know she is in a better place. I am heartbroken to read that she is gone. Like the bald eagles that she has nursed back to health, I pray her spirit will soar high above us & guide us to do the right thing when an injured animal needs our help. To her family I am very sorry for your lose. God bless & rest in peace Betsy Knight...
#2
Sarah Knight Westmoreland
on
02/17/12 at 08:33 PM
[Reply]
My sisters and brother and I are so, so grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received from our community, extended family, and friends. We believe that our mother WON her battle. She is with Jesus, our Lord and Savior now. She went very peacefully, surrounded by family and lifelong friends. The thoughts and prayers and stories we've all gotten from everyone has helped us get through this, and we will be forever grateful.
#3
Kathy S. Johnson
on
02/18/12 at 08:15 AM
[Reply]
This woman was truly dedicated to saving wildlife in our area. She will be missed greatly. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.