Elizabeth A. "Betty" Gilchrist, age 73 of Paris, passed away Monday, May 26, 2014 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. She was born October 5, 1940 in Chicago the daughter of Elden K. and Winnie (Butler) Johnson. Betty graduated high school in 1958 from Marywood Academy in Grand Rapids. She married Jack Gilchrist on June 15, 1963 in Big Rapids. They made their home, for over 40 years, on the farm in Paris. Betty was a life member of V.F.W. #2964 auxiliary in Reed City and had served as district 12 president for two terms. She was also a life member of V.F.W. #4102 auxiliary, serving as president for over six years. Betty was a devout member of the Catholic faith her entire life. She was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church and had served as a lector for both St. Anne and St. Philip Neri Churches. She is survived by her husband, Jack Gilchrist of Paris; three sons, Michael (Aileen) Gilchrist of Chase, Thomas (Robyn) King of Ashton, Kenneth (Julie) Gilchrist of Stanwood; special girl, Christina Lovsted of Big Rapids; Betty's buddy and apple of her eye, Anthony Gilchrist; eight grandchildren; a sister, Jean Rardin of Big Rapids; two brothers, Joseph (Mary) Johnson of Scottville, William (Claudia) Johnson of Paris and many nieces and nephews. Betty was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Arlene VanAlstine. A memorial Mass will take place 11:00 a.m. Thursday, May, 29, 2014 at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church in Reed City with Father Loc Q. Trinh officiating. The family will greet friends at 9:30 a.m. until Mass at 11:00 a.m. at Church. Memorial contributions in Betty's memory may be given to her family.