Betty Spencer

Betty Spencer, born Elizabeth Lou Knapp in Daytona Beach, FL on August 29, 1927 grew up in Daytona Beach and attended Mainland High School. A driven and hard worker, Betty helped manage the Greyhound Post House, a bus stop and restaurant, all while caring for her home and her 7 children-Jan (Robinson), Sandy (Lewis), Robert (Sinclair), James (Maples), David (Maples), Carla (Holmes), and Cathy (Behe).

A pioneer in female entrepreneurship, Betty started what may have been the first woman-owned car dealership in Central Florida called Spencer Auto Sales in South Orlando. She was well known and respected at the local auto auctions. Betty became a very successful business owner and decided it was time to invest in real estate. She bought Flamingo Mobile Home Park on Orange Blossom Trail, moved her car business there as well, and operated both businesses until she was nearly 80 years old.

Betty had a very active social life that included supporting her beloved Orlando Magic, playing cards with family and friends, and bowling, which was her favorite sport. She bowled on many leagues and won many awards well into her 70s.

Betty is survived by her 7 children and countless other family members and friends who will never forget her.

Betty was a resident of the Courtyards of Orlando. She left us on February 4, 2015. The viewing will be on Monday, February 9th at Baldwin-Fairchild Ivanhoe at 10am-12pm. The graveside service will be at the Chapel Hill Cemetery from 1pm-2pm on the same day.