Betsy Jane Yost, of Flat Rock, N.C., passed away at the Elizabeth House in Flat Rock on Feb. 17, 2016, after a lengthy illness.

Born in Norfolk, on Oct. 24, 1954, Betsy attended John Yeates High School in Suffolk. She graduated from the University of Virginia in 1978, majoring in art history. Later, after earning a degree in education at Virginia Commonwealth University, she taught art at Tucker High School in Henrico County and participated in the International Baccalaureate program there. Recently, she received her master’s degree in interdisciplinary studies at Virginia Commonwealth University, focusing on studio art.

Betsy was a member of the Artspace Gallery in Richmond. She worked for many years at the Louis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond. She loved art, nature and animals. She was beloved by her art students and remained in contact with many of them after they had graduated.

She was a kind and gentle soul who always brought happiness to her friends, family and anyone who came in contact with her.

She is preceded in death by her father, Basil O. Yost Jr. She is survived by her mother, June Lassiter Yost, of Hendersonville; sister, Sharon Y. Rhodes and husband, Bill, of Leonardtown, Md.; brother, Basil O. Yost III and wife, Mary Lynn, of Flat Rock, N.C.; sister, Susan H. Yost; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A service will be held in Virginia at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Elizabeth House, 571 South Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731; or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123; or to one’s favorite charity.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center is in charge of the arrangements.