Atsuko (Betty) (Suzuki) Paley

Atsuko (Betty) Paley, 87, of Columbus, OH passed away unexpectedly but peacefully, on November 13, 2023 at Carriage Court of Grove City. Betty was born in Kushiro, Japan on March 26, 1936. She was a loyal and dutiful Army-wife to retired Command Sergeant Major Jerome Paley until his passing on Dec 2, 1991. Never remarrying, Betty was the matriarch of the family and devoted the rest of her life to her kids, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

She is survived by her sister Kiyoko Suzuki of Sapporo Japan, her son Philip (Christina) Paley of Columbus, OH, daughter Nancy (Mike) Rosch of Sanford, NC, son Robert (Alison) Paley of Norfolk, England, daughter Karen (James) Zimmerman of Ashville, OH, along with 10 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. At family gatherings, Betty felt great joy in knowing that she and Jerome were the start of such a large family. 

Betty was previously employed at the Wexner Heritage House and then proudly held a 20+year position with Tomasco. Betty enjoyed traveling, movies, karaoke, cooking, going out weekly with her friends, and spending time with her family. 

She was an amazing grandmother who rode amusement park rides, attended sporting and school events and made each child/grandchild feel loved.  

Anyone who met Betty loved her! She was a sweet and charismatic woman.   Even during the last 3 years when dementia had a grip on her, her loving and funny personality still shined through. 

Betty is preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, her husband, and a grandson, Steven Paley.

Her family would like to thank the wonderful employees in the memory care area at Carriage Court for loving Betty like she was a part of their own family. From bringing her frozen treats (from Starbucks), to holding her hand or hugging her so she never felt lonely, and for giving her Japanese food and snacks when they thought she would prefer that over the American meals being served.  Their acts of compassion were so appreciated. 

Arrangements are being handled by Oliver-Cheek Funeral Home in Ashville. Visitation will be from 2-6 p.m. on Monday, January 22nd at Oliver-Cheek Funeral Home, 420 W. Main St. Ashville, OH 43103.  Burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington DC next to her husband on Wednesday, January 24th at 9:00 a.m.  She may be gone, but her adventurous spirit lives on through all who love and will miss her. Online condolences at olivercheekfuneralhome.com