Bette Dodge was born in Austin, Nev., to Anna and Frank Cochran. At the age of four, she settled with her family in Reno, Nev., where she attended school. She graduated from Reno High School in 1940, and went on to the University of Nevada, Reno, where she spent the next two years. While at UNR she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta, and in 1940 was voted the most outstanding girl at UNR. She went on to Pasadena Playhouse to study acting. She returned to Reno where, on August 13, 1947, she married Carl F. Dodge. They made their home in Fallon, Nev., where she spent her remaining years. In 1948, a son Carlon was born and two years later a daughter, Audys. Bette always said those were her happiest years raising her children. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. Bette was a great homemaker and cook, and spent many hours volunteering at the schools and athletic events in which her children were involved. She was the originator of the Bean Feed, which today continues to raise funds for Little League. She was active in the Republican Central Committee. She was a devoted member of the First Church of Christ, Scientist while it was active in Fallon, and served in the capacity as president of the board, Reader, Sunday school teacher, and piano player.
Bette was preceded in death by her parents, brother William Cochran and her husband of 59 years, Carl. She is survived by her son Carlon Dodge, daughter Audys Dodge Losche, grandsons, David (Anna) Dodge, Andrei (Jessey) Losche, Christian Losche, Chase Losche and great-granddaughter Kendra Dodge.
A private family burial was held on Thursday, June 25, at Masonic Memorial Gardens in Reno. Donations in her memory may be made to the First Church of Christ, Scientist, P.O. Box 287, Carson City, NV 89702.