The Oregonian, Portland, Oregon, March 29, 2007, Edition: Sunrise, Page: D01: Deceased Name: Betty Jean Donnelly: Steadfast franchise fan 'Blazer Betty' dies at 79. Betty Jean Donnelly, the devoted Trail Blazers fan known affectionately as "Blazer Betty," died Wednesday at the age of 79. Donnelly died at Adventist Medical Center from complications arising from a severe kidney infection, according to hospital staff. "She went peacefully," said Chris Walsh, Donnelly's best friend and longtime caregiver. "Thanks so much for those who made her life worth living the last few years. I really mean that. The attention and interaction she got from being 'Blazer Betty' helped keep her spirit alive." Donnelly, an Iowa native who moved to Portland after completing college, served as a kindergarten teacher in the area for most of her 37-year career. She also had a love for gospel music, taught Sunday school, and was an 18-year Trail Blazers' season-ticket holder. Donnelly became a popular fixture at the Rose Garden Arena during Blazers home games. Residents at her assisted-living facility in Northeast Portland said --win or lose --Donnelly always posted the score of the team's latest game on the window of her room. Inside her room she had various Blazers bobbleheads, pennants, autographed basketballs and other memorabilia she loved to share with visitors such as former Blazers guard Steve Blake, who dropped in after reading about Donnelly's dedication to the franchise in The Oregonian. Donnelly was the subject of a piece in The Oregonian on Christmas Day 2005, where she remarked that despite never marrying and never having children, she was never alone for the holidays. Said Donnelly: "I have my team." A memorial will be at 11 a.m. April 5 at Lifegate Baptist Church. Attendees are encouraged to wear red and black to honor Donnelly's favorite NBA team. Remembrances to the missionary fund, Lifegate Baptist Church.

Author: JOHN CANZANO