Betty Sembler, a pillar of our community and a trailblazer in drug prevention and treatment, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 16, 2022, surrounded by her husband, Mel, and their loving family. Born on August 8, 1931, in Memphis, she grew up in Dyersburg, Tennessee. Betty's charming personality and sense of humor allowed her to make a positive impact on many lives.
After graduating from Northwestern University in 1953, she met and married Mel Sembler, with whom she shared a 69-year love story. They moved to St. Petersburg, Florida, in 1968, where Betty became deeply involved in her community, advocating for drug prevention. She played a significant role in launching Nancy Reagan’s "Just Say No" campaign and co-founded the Drug Free America Foundation, Inc.
Betty and Mel were also prominent political fundraisers, supporting both the Florida and National Republican committees. They became close friends with President George H.W. Bush and his family and served the country when Mel was appointed Ambassador to Australia and Italy.
Betty is survived by her husband, Melvin Sembler, their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her brother Victor Schlesinger, and sister-in-law Dodie Krakower. She received numerous accolades for her work, including the DEA Museum Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Florida Women's Hall of Fame.
Services were held on February 18, 2022, at Temple Beth-El in St. Petersburg. Donations in her memory can be made to Drug Free America Foundation, The Florida Holocaust Museum, The Florida Orchestra or Temple Beth-El. Online guestbook at davidcgross.com David C. Gross Funeral Home