Josephine Betts

The heavenly gates opened on May 14, 2020, to welcome our beloved mother, sister, grandmother and aunt, after losing her battle with COVID-19.

Born in Aberdeen, Miss., on Sept. 21, 1937, Josephine accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was involved in church activities until a stroke caused her to be homebound. She had many fond memories of serving on the Usher Board.

She fell in love and married her best friend, J.C. Betts in 1959. They welcomed their oldest son, Lemont in 1964, followed shortly by Gene in 1966, and then Huggy in 1976. The family enjoyed sports and she followed the boys to different sporting events. Josephine loved and enjoyed her sons. Affectionately called “Momma Betts,” she ran the concession stand at Union Field for many years.

Josephine is reunited in death with her parents, Samnard Manning and Nancy Hollis; and brother, Samnard Manning Jr.

Left to treasure all of the precious memories are: husband, J.C. Betts of 61 years; sons, Lemont (Renee) of Benton Harbor, Alton “Gene” (Norma) of Nolanville, Texas, and Cleavon “Huggy” (Amy) of Niles; two sisters, Imogene Manning and Ester “Doll” Bumpers, both of Chicago; 12 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

A homegoing service will be held at noon on Thursday, May 21, at Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan, with Pastor Jerry Bishop of Life Quest Outreach Ministries, Grand Rapids, officiating. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Mishawaka, Ind. Friends and family are welcome one hour prior to the service. Online condolences may be made at www.hovenfunerals.com.