Joseph Lee Betts

Joseph began his career at General Motors Chevy Truck and Bus in 1959. He answered his country’s call and served in the United States Army from December 1961 to December 1963 before returning to GM, where he continued until his retirement in 1992.

In 1963, Joseph married Beverly Conran. Together they built a life marked by generosity and love, raising two children, Michael and Lori, and opening their home to dozens of foster children over the years. They were married for 59 years until Beverly’s passing in April 2022.

After retiring, Joseph and Beverly relocated to Houghton Lake in 1992, where he worked at Super Car Wash, making sure your car was clean before you even pulled into the bay. Easy to spot in his beanie hat, he took pride in every vehicle that came through. Together, they owned and operated Granny B’s Antiques and Crafts, served as funeral ministry coordinators at Houghton Lake United Methodist Church, were active members of the Houghton Lake Relay for Life team, and served as committee members for Boy Scouts of America Troop 955. Everything he did--the always-open door, the community work, and the lives he touched--was a reflection of a man who loved the Lord and lived it out loud.

In 2014, Joseph and Beverly moved to Jenison, Michigan, where he spent the rest of his years being a Papa to all who needed one.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Mary Betts; brothers Dale Betts and Robert Betts Sr.; son-in-law, Jerry Betts; and beloved wife, Beverly Betts.

He is survived by his children Michael (Michelle) Betts of South Mills, NC and Lori (Dennis) Betts of Wyoming, MI; siblings Wilfred John (Trinka) Betts, Ann Lowry, Jon Allen Walworth, Joy (John) Harenchar, and Janet Morey; grandson, Jacob (Ashley) Betts of Wyoming, MI; granddaughter, Skylar Betts of West Bloomfield, MI; honorary granddaughter, Hailey Petty of Grand Rapids, MI; great-grandchildren Theodore and Eleanora Betts; and his friend, Bruce Ulberg, who cared for him with great dedication in his final two years and became a treasured part of his life. Of all the gifts his life held, being Papa to his “babies” brought him the greatest joy.

A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, June 27, 2026 at Swartz Creek Church of the Nazarene, 7154 Morrish Rd., Swartz Creek, MI 48473 with luncheon to follow. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their online guestbook.