Betty Delila Haywood

Betty Delila Haywood, much-loved mom, grandma and great-grandma, went home to be with her Savior, Jesus Christ, on May 16, 2024, in Yuma, AZ, at the age of 86. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Gordon Haywood, and was anxiously awaiting being reunited with him.

Betty was born on July 27, 1937, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Edwin and Helen Scott. She had an older sister, Kay, who preceded her in death. She met Bill, the love of her life, at church when she was 17. They were married in 1956, the day after she turned 19, and nine months later they started their family, welcoming four children within seven years.

Betty and Bill moved their family to the Grand Rapids, Michigan, area in 1971, and Betty worked as a bookkeeper at Grand Rapids Baptist Academy (now NorthPoint Christian) to help put her kids through Christian school, because she believed strongly in Christian education. Betty returned to school full-time after her kids graduated and became a registered nurse. She joyfully worked at both a hospital and a nursing home.

Betty and Bill lived in Pittsburgh, PA, for a few years after Bill’s job called them there, until he retired in 1993. They then began their favorite roles together—that of grandparents! They returned to the Grand Rapids area to be near their sons’ families, and spent the winters in Yuma, Arizona, to be close to their daughters’ families, eventually fully retiring to AZ. Betty loved being Gma and GG to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Betty also loved serving the Lord alongside Bill, singing in choir and teaching children’s church and Vacation Bible School over the years. Although she was introverted by nature, her home was always open to others, and she loved hosting missionaries and friends in their home.

Betty was a skillful seamstress and made beautiful clothes for her kids and grandkids (and even grandkids’ dolls!) for many years. She also enjoyed crafts and crocheting. She loved playing games with family and friends, and in her retirement years she traveled, played golf and learned to square dance.

Betty leaves behind her daughter Kathie Haywood of Yuma, AZ, Keith Haywood (and wife Sherry) of Pensacola, FL, Ken Haywood (and wife Joyce) of Sand Lake, MI, and Kelly Steinbock (and husband Mike) of Oxnard, CA. She also leaves a wonderful legacy of 17 grandchildren (including spouses), and 17 great-grandchildren.

Betty set a wonderful example of honoring Christ, loving her husband, caring for her family and her home, and serving others during her life on earth. She will be greatly missed but joyfully celebrated, finally home in the arms of her Savior and surely hearing "well done, good and faithful servant."

I Thess 4:13 we grieve, but not as those who have no hope

Proverbs 31:28 “Her children rise up and call her blessed.”