LAWRENCE — Bernice "Betti" L. Alexander, 94, of Lawrence, passed away Jan. 14 at a nursing home in Lawrence. Born March 5, 1917, in Worcester, Mass., she was the daughter of Albert H. and Esther (Brackett) Ladue. She graduated from high school and then attended one year of college. On July 28, 1944, she married Col. Leland "Alex" Guy Alexander in in Schenectady, N.Y. He preceded her in death on Nov. 12, 2005. She then married Joseph McLaughlin in Lawrence. He preceded her in death in February of 2011.

Betti was a professional ballet dancer and instructor, and taught dance for many years, until she was married and then became a homemaker. She was a volunteer with the American Red Cross, and gave of her time at the Army Community Service and Thrift Shop, along with 26 years of giving of her time at the Army Hospital.

Survivors include two daughters, Cherie Orth and husband Jim of Council Grove, and Diane Trueblood and husband Ray of Parker, Colo.; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her sister Hazel Trainor.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 19 at Leavenworth National Cemetery. Friends may visit from 2-8 p.m. on Wednesday, with the family present from 6-8 p.m. Memorials in her name may be directed to the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be sent or to share a memory at www.beldenlarkin.com.