When the family relocated to Springfield, MO., they rented a room to college students attending the local Drury College. Two of these students were Hillard and Marvin Grannemann. Marvin invited Betty to the movies, and a jealous Hillard followed them and sat behind them in the theater. Soon afterward Betty found Hillard to be the love of her life. During their courtship Hillard shared his deep faith in Jesus Christ with her, and they spend HOURS discussing Bible truths. She was highly intrigued by what she learned from him and decided to begin Confirmation classes at Hillard's church.
Hillard and Betty were married on January 29, 1950, and remained devoted to each other with Christ as the Center for 69 years. Their marriage was blessed with five children. Betty was a devoted wife and mother. She was extremely active and used her God-given gifts in service to her church as a Sunday School teacher, member of the Altar Guild, member of the Ladies Guild, and Church Secretary.
Betty was a “people person.” As her children grew up, she went to work as a sales associate at Rich's Department Store in Ladies' Accessories. She and her best friend were hired as part time/temp Christmas help. They stayed for five years! In the fall of 1980, Betty returned to college to finish her degree. Thirty years after her freshman year at Drury College in Springfield, she enrolled in Kennesaw College. She graduated with a degree in finance in 1984. She was hired by Trust Company as a Loan Compliance Officer. During her time at the bank, she was active with the United Way. Trust Company partnered with a local elementary school, and Betty enjoyed reading aloud to the children. She retired after ten years with the bank.
Hillard and Betty made the most of their retirement years traveling in their motor home to all 49 continental states, Mexico, and every province in Canada. Their favorite destination was Alaska, which they visited twice. They visited national parks, historical landmarks, monuments, etc., soaking up history and the wonders of God's creation.
Betty remained devoted to her family for her entire life. Her children and grandchildren will remember her for her shining example of a Christian mother and grandmother. Her lasting legacy is the firm foundation on Christ that her family stands on today. We thank God for giving her to us!
Betty is survived by her daughters, Susan Briggs, Judy (DJ) DeJarnett, Carol (Alton) Hulsey, Teresa (Roy) Baker, Sheila (Betty's FAVORITE daughter-in-law) Grannemann; 16 granchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great-grandchildren; and two sisters Martha Ward and Sandra Herman. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Hillard; her son, Mark; a sister, Jean O'Fill; and her brother, James Reed.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.winkenhoferpineridgefuneralhome.com for the Grannemann family.
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