Betty Jean (Luckett) Babitzke

Betty Luckett Babitzke, 91, of Winter Garden, Florida, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2024. Born on August 18, 1933, in Fort Worth, Texas, to the late Embry Luckett and Reva Furnish Luckett, Betty lived a remarkable life filled with love, dedication, and a passion for people and community.

While working as a secretary, Betty met the love of her life, Ernest “Ernie” Babitzke. They married on March 5, 1955, and spent a beautiful life together, raising two daughters and embracing the adventures of moving frequently with Ernie’s career. Betty was a devoted homemaker and a woman of many talents and interests.

Betty loved volunteering, genealogy, investing, and playing golf. An avid sports fan, she impressed everyone with her knowledge of professional sports teams’ stats, especially her favorites, the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Rays.

Throughout her life, Betty actively engaged in her communities and enriched the lives of those around her. She was a member of the New Neighbors Club in Houston, Texas, and the Citizens Police Academy in Metro Dade County, Miami, Florida. She started women’s investment clubs in both Miami and Punta Gorda, Florida, sharing her enthusiasm for financial education and empowerment. Betty also volunteered as the Senior Transportation Coordinator for golf pros at the Doral Eastern Open Tournament during the 1970s and 1980s.

A member of the Guild of the Museum of Science in Miami, she spearheaded the creation of the Make It Miamicookbook, showcasing her leadership and creativity. Her love of family history led her to become a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) for 27 years, where she earned numerous accolades for her dedication and service.

Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ernie. She is survived by her daughters, Kristi Babitzke Handley (John Handley) and Sherri Babitzke Palmer (Will Palmer); her cherished grandchildren, Lindsey Baker, Dr. Elaine Handley, Megan Hanes, Brian Sewell, and Johanna Dunne; and nine great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

A memorial service to celebrate Betty’s life will be held on January 31, 2025, at 6:00 PM at The Summit of Winter Garden.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Betty Babitzke will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, vibrant spirit, and unwavering love for her family and friends. Her legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire all who knew her.

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