Lloyd J. Betterton

Sep 5, 1934 - May 4, 2012

Lloyd Betterton, a USAF veteran, died Friday at his home in Sun Lakes, AZ after a long and mostly successful fight with leukemia. He was 77 years old.

He was born in Donnellson, Illinois on Sep 5, 1934 to Charles and Mary (White) Betterton. In high school, and later life, Lloyd excelled in sports, especially basketball, even though he was only 5' 4 1/2".

Lloyd joined the USAF in 1952 and served his country for over 20 years. While in the military, he saw service at numerous stateside bases as well as Korea, Germany, and England (where he met and married his wife of 55 years).

He is survived by his wife Maureen of Sun Lakes, AZ; brother Richard Betterton of Pana, Illinois; daughter Debbie (Dave) Murray of Chandler, AZ, son Gary Betterton of Chandler, AZ, son Richard (Natasha) Betterton of Mt. Zion, Illinois, and daughter Lisa (James) Hudlin of Pana, Illinois.

His is further survived by his 8 grandsons, Brandon Murray of Chandler, AZ, Steven (Amanda) Murray of Houston, Texas, William Murray of El Mirage, AZ, Shane Murray of Chandler, AZ, Cameron Betterton of Mt. Zion, Illinois, Dylon Hudlin, Case Hudlin, and Evan Hudlin, all of Pana, Illinois.

He is also survived by his 3 great-grandchildren, Jessica Murray, Trey Murray, and Trent Murray, all of Chandler, AZ.

Lloyd was an avid believer in Christ, a past church Elder at the Chandler Presbyterian Church, and was a current parishioner at the Risen Savior Lutheran Church of Chandler. In short, Lloyd was a rock in every community he lived in and was quick to lend a hand or advice to whomever needed it. He was generous to a fault, and loved sharing his "Learning Moments". He also scored 3 "Hole in Ones" in his life, showing passion for sport lasted well into his 70's.

His compassion has been a comfort to many, many over the years and his passing leaves an empty place in the hearts of all of his descendents as well as innumerous friends and extended families. He will be sorely missed.

RIP Lloyd, we love you!

Funeral services will be held at the Risen Savior Lutheran Church of Chandler at 2:30 PM on Wednesday, May 9 followed immediately by an interment service at the Valley of the Sun Cemetery, also in Chandler, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, Lloyd specifically asked that donations be made to the Hospice of the Valley (602) 530-6992, who we wish to sincerely thank for their help and compassion over the last few months.