Robert Ernest Betsill Jr.

August 17, 1940 - December 23, 2019

Robert passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He came into this world as the adored son of, and was predeceased by, Grace and Robert “Cotton” Betsill Sr.

Beloved husband of surviving wife, Adela Betsill. Loving father of Wes Betsill and Melissa Almon and husband Scott. Cherished stepfather of Arlin Brown, Tony Santiago and wife Brittany and Alex Santiago. Dear grandfather of Bobby Brown, Madison Betsill, Connor and Mitchell Almon. Precious brother of Barbara Dortch. Dearest cousin of Linda Sward, many nieces and nephews, and way too many in-laws to name but you know how precious you are all. And so many wonderful friends who made his life special, particularly Truman “Billy” Price who has always been there.

Robert was born and raised in Atlanta. He graduated from Murphy High School in 1958 where he remained lifelong friends with many of his classmates. In 1965, while working full time and trying to raise a family he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering from Georgia Tech. He was recruited right after graduation to work for Elliott Company. There, he developed the skills needed to turn his love of people and engineering into a lifetime career. Upon closing their local offices, Elliott asked if he would start his own company to be their representative. In 1980, he started Process and Power Equipment Sales. Robert never looked back. With strong work ethic, full dedication and commitment, Robert ran his company until his illness no longer allowed him to do what he loved.

Robert enjoyed playing as much as he loved to work. He treasured family time, events, and parties. Robert’s passion for fun and humor brought so much joy to everyone he met. He craved going to the beach yearly if not more, especially Daytona Beach. He loved boating on Lake Lanier and Berkeley Lake. Just about all sports were good with him but Georgia Tech Football and Basketball always remained a soft spot in his heart. When it came to playing sports, he excelled at many, though tennis was his favorite, especially when he was able to play doubles with his adult children. He loved that more than anything.

Robert always believed it was easier to be happy than to be sad. He was the best life coach and teacher and was an example of a life lived well for all that knew him. One of his favorite sayings was “Today is the first day of the rest of your life, make the best of it!”. He lived his life that way. He was loved by many and will be missed dearly.