Queensbury - Betty Jane (Naatz) Sheldon, 85, passed away peacefully on her birthday, February 19, 2026. Born on February 19, 1941, Betty lived a full and vibrant life defined by love, hard work, and creativity.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Sheldon; her parents, Floyd and Ethel Naatz; her sisters, Teresa Hayes and Helen Brodell; and her brother, Floyd Jr. (Sonny) Naatz.

Betty was not afraid of hard work. Alongside her husband George, she spent many years building two beautiful homes from the ground up. She was always in the middle of a project— upgrading a room, improving her home, or tending her garden. Any visit began with a proud tour of what she had most recently accomplished, whether it was a new home improvement or a flourishing bed of flowers, often followed by a slice of one of her delicious homemade pies.

She had many talents and passions. Betty loved square dancing, playing her fiddle, canning, gardening, and surrounding herself with flowers. There was little she wouldn't tackle herself, and she carried that independence and determination throughout her life.

Quilting, however, was her greatest passion. Betty poured her heart into every quilt she made, carefully stitching together beautiful works of art that she lovingly gifted to family and friends. Each quilt was a reflection of her creativity, patience, and deep love for those who received them. Her quilts will remain treasured keepsakes, wrapping her family in warmth for generations to come.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Jerry Backus and his wife, Vicki, Russ Backus and his wife, Antoinetta, Becky Schlick and her husband, Bob, Deb Beecher and her husband, Jeff, Don Backus and his wife, Carrie and Georgi Boni and her husband, Todd. She was blessed with  grandchildren, Jeremy Backus, Danica Carpenter, David Backus, Randy Carpenter, Kayla Backus and her husband, Michael Anderson, Jordan Backus, Andrea Backus, Zack Gough, Alex Gough, Jake Fuller, Sean Backus, and Sarah Backus; great grandchildren, Makenzie, Mason, Maebree, Cole, Aubree, Rain, and Helios. Betty is also survived by her sister, Virginia Langworthy. She held a special fondness for her nieces, Wendy Hayes and Diane Buser, and treasured their visits. Last but far from least, Betty is also survived by her beloved kitties, Thomas and Tazzy, who were her unwavering companions.

Betty's life was one of devotion—to her husband, her family, her home, and the simple but meaningful things that brought beauty into the world. Her legacy lives on in the 25 people above who would not be here without her, the homes she helped build, the gardens she nurtured, the quilts that warm her loved ones, and the strong, capable spirit she passed down through generations.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in our hearts.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.