Bette A. Williams

Bette A. Williams, age 92, formerly of New Philadelphia, died Saturday, April 12, 2014 in Liberty Nursing Center at Beavercreek, Ohio following a period of declining health.

A daughter of the late Wilbert L. and Eunice (Keffer) Smith, Bette was born at New Philadelphia on November 15, 1921.

She was a 1939 graduate of New Philadelphia High School and during her time there, enjoyed being a member of the band where she played percussion instruments. On November 28, 1941, Bette married the love of her life, Earl Williams. Together the couple raised one son, enjoyed fishing trips throughout the United States and Canada and shared in 55 years of marriage prior to his passing on January 14, 1997.

Bette was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church where she was active in various church functions and for a period of time, served as the Financial Secretary. She was an avid reader who also enjoyed needlepoint and was a member of several area Bridge clubs.

She is survived by her son, Gregory (wife, Dorendia) Williams of Beavercreek, Ohio; two granddaughters, Lauren (husband, Justin) Miller of Beavercreek and Leslie Williams of New York City and three adopted grandchildren, Jennifer McKenna, Christopher May and Stacy Doak.

Completing the family are two sisters, Shirley L. Koehler and Sue R. Smith both of Findlay, Ohio and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Bette was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth D. Smith.

The family will greet guests one hour prior to services on Thursday, April 17, 2014 from 1:00 – 2:00 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia where Rev. Dr. Steven Bailey will lead a service celebrating Bette’s life at 2:00 PM. Burial alongside her husband will follow in the East Avenue Cemetery at New Philadelphia. Following the service, guests are invited to the Geib Family Center, adjacent to the funeral home for a time of food and fellowship.

Memorial contributions in Bette’s name may be directed to the First United Methodist Church, 201 West High Avenue, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.