Mother Betty Jane Joplin

Was a cherished matriarch who's loving spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. Born on October 7, 1934, in Jackson, Michigan, Betty was a beacon of warmth and kindness throughout her 91 years. Betty was the beloved daughter of Virginia and Edward Porter, the second of three children, and her parents instilled in her the values of compassion and resilience. Betty accepted Jesus Christ at an early age, and Jesus Christ remained at the forefront of her life. Her faith did not waiver. She trusted in the Lord.

Betty Jane attended Jackson High School and continued her education in the health, wellness, and beauty industry, becoming a licensed electrologist at Kree International Institute in New York City. She then returned to Jackson to build her career, marking the start of her entrepreneurial journey. She enjoyed styling wigs and practiced self-taught sewing throughout her life. Betty sold many of her handmade creations, including satin zipper money pouches designed to attach to a garment lining or be worn around the waist. She also made monogrammed handkerchiefs, terrycloth robes, and adult bibs. Betty moved to Flint to start working for General Motors Fisher Body Assembly plant and eventually retired with thirty years of service from Flint Truck and Bus Assembly plant. While living in Flint, she was a loyal member of New Jerusalem Baptist Church.

After retiring, Betty returned to Jackson, where she reconnected with First Evangelistic C.O.G.I.O. and became a devoted church mother and faithful member. She loved serving her church community and gave generously of her time and spirit.

In her later years, Betty met and married Amos Joplin. Together, they built a life rooted in love, creating a home that was always open to family and friends. They shared many joyful years until Amos's passing. Betty was predeceased by her devoted husband, Amos, her loving parents, Virginia and Edward Porter, her dear siblings, Henry and Joan Porter, and many beloved family members, including her nephews Henry Roger Porter and Johnnie Lynn Jones, and her uncle and aunt, Henry and Lucille Patterson and close cousin, Juanita Vaughn. She is now reunited with them in peace. Betty's legacy lives on through her surviving family, who will forever cherish their memories of her. She leaves behind her niece, Shelia Porter, and nephew, Kevin Porter. Her presence will be deeply missed by her great-nephew Jua'Qan (Kristen) Williams and great-niece Meija Jones, along with her great-great-nieces A'Lahni Jones and Taelynn Williams. Betty shared a special bond with her great-great-niece A'Nyiah Jones, whom she lovingly called her "special girl," and her special cousin, Virginia McCann. Betty’s family also includes cousins, Rosalie Glaspie, Patricia Brown, Sharon Moore, Desharia S. Hopson, Sondra Huddleston, Rebecca Moore, and a host of other loving relatives and friends.

Each of them holds cherished memories of Betty's warmth and humor. Throughout her life, Betty was a woman of faith and strength, providing guidance, wisdom and love to all around her. As we say goodbye to Betty Jane, we remember her with fondness and gratitude for the legacy of love she leaves behind. May she rest in eternal peace, her spirit forever in our hearts.

The family extends special thanks to her caregiver’s great-niece, Meija Jones, and Kelly Wallace and Margaret Hobbs, along with the staff of Cascade Senior Care Center for their compassionate care, dignity, and respect.

The family of Mother Betty Jane Joplin