Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas at the south end of the “Strip”

Betty Willis passed away on April 20, 2015 (age 91) in Overton, Nevada. Betty was famously known as a neon sign designer and is responsible for designing one of the most iconic signs in the world, The Welcome to Fabulous  Las Vegas Nevada sign.  Erected in 1959 by Western Neon and is currently owned by YESCO. The sign was designed by Betty Willis and was never copyrighted.

Blue Angel Motel

The Blue Angel Motel sign was also designed by Betty Willis was criticized for depicting the well endowed angel that now over looks the motel. At one time, the angel revolved and was surrounded by blue jays. The Blue Angel was inspired, fittingly enough, by the Blue Fairy in Walt Disney’s classic animated feature, “Pinocchio”.

The Normandie Motel Marquee neon sign

Another sign by Willis was the Normandie Motel Sign. The original motel was located on the east end of Fremont Street and was torn down during the first decade of 2000. The sign is now located on Las Vegas Blvd. just north of Fremont Street and is part of the public display from the Boneyard collection.

Moulin Rouge Neon Sign in West Las Vegas

Willis designed the French inspired sign for the Moulin Rouge Hotel.

She continued designing signs until she retired at the age of 77.