AUBURN – Dora E. “Betty” Withers, 81, of Auburn, passed away on Monday, Dec. 26, with her loving family by her side after a courageous battle with cancer.

Betty was born in Lewiston on Feb. 26, 1924, a daughter of the late Ralph and Mary (Foster) Victor.

She attended local schools and later met the love of her life, Chester A. Withers. They married on Dec. 24, 1941. They had been together in marriage for 64 years.

Betty’s greatest joy in life was devoting herself to her loving family. She loved to cook, especially for them. She enjoyed crocheting and made many afghans. Another one of her hobbies was painting pictures. Betty was strong and courageous, a devoted, loving and compassionate woman.

She is survived by her loving husband and best friend, Chester A. “Chet” Withers, of Auburn; a daughter, Kathleen M. Ray of Newport, N.H.; two sons, Bruce A. Withers and wife, Carol, of Minot, and Ricky L. Withers and wife, Gloria, of Greene; two sisters, Marcella Walklins and Jackie Bouchard, both of Lewiston. Betty is also survived by her six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents; two daughters, Nancy Withers at birth, and Barbara A. Webster; two sons in-law, Kenneth Webster and Ronald Ray; three sisters, Marie Allen, Melena Drinon and Lorraine Emmons; and a brother, Ralph F. Victor.