Betty Earline Bethem – Naples, Fla.
Betty Earline Bethem, 99, passed away on Aug. 20, 2021. Betty was born in Charleroi, the daughter of Albert Sr. and Jennie Bertsche. She was a Naples, Fla., homeowner and for the last eight years she lived at the Lely Retirement Community Center in Naples. Betty is survived by two sons, Richard (Ruth) of Naples and Thomas (Bette Jo) of Poolesville, Md. She was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Edmund Jules Bethem, and her brother, Albert, both of Charleroi. Betty was loved by her four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews. Betty and her family were very active in Christ Lutheran Church of Charleroi and, later, Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Naples. Among her many contributions, Betty initiated the Naples’ Emmanuel’s Internet Prayer Chain and was president and circle leader of her church’s WELCA group. Betty was a talented, award-winning and voracious cross-stitcher, providing family and friends with beautiful works, and shared that knowledge with her daughter-in-law, Ruth. Betty also enjoyed reading, playing Mah-Jongg and dominoes. She looked forward to entertaining family and friends and she was always a gracious host. Arrangements will be made at a later date to celebrate her life. In place of flowers, donations may be made to the Vitas Healthcare Hospice, 4980 Tamiami Trail N. Unit 102, Naples, FL 34103.
