James was born on December 6th, 1958 to Ronald Betterly and Barbara Smith in Lansing, Michigan. After graduating from Dansville High School, James went on to join the United States Army. James was a part of the Airborne Division as a Pathfinder and took tremendous pride in his service, and proudly shared stories of jumping out of airplanes with his dog Whiskey Jo.
After serving in the Military, James had a few different jobs but none of them he loved as much as being on the open road as a long haul truck driver. James learned of his love and passion for the road at a young age as he followed in the footsteps of his father. Some other passions he shared were riding his Harley, hunting, collecting antiques, story telling, and spending time with friends and family - especially his 3 grand children.
In 2015, James suffered a stroke and moved to the Lansing area where he settled into his new home with his best friend and companion, Jingo. The two were inseparable and even though Jingo is a 60 pound German Shepherd, she thought she was a lap dog. Truly a man's best friend. James was proud of his daughters and thoroughly loved being a Grandfather. His face would light up every time he saw them, being a Grandpa was one of his greatest joys.
James is survived by his three daughters, Jessica, Jolene, Julie and son in law Aaron, in addition to three grandchildren, Savannah, Joseph, Eleanor. Also surviving are his mother Barbara, siblings Steve (Joanne) and Teresa (Rusty) and several other beloved family members. James was preceded in death by his son John, Aunt Dawn, and his father and stepmother Ron and Gale Betterly.
Visitation will be held from 12-2pm on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at Gorsline Runciman Williamston Chapel, 205 E. Middle Street, Williamston, MI 48895. The service will follow at 4pm at Millville United Methodist Church, 1932 M-52, Stockbridge, MI 49285.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in to the American Stroke Association in his memory.
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