Elizabeth "Bette" Amelia James

January 12, 1928 - December 4, 2016

Traverse City - Elizabeth “Bette” A. James, 88, passed away December 4, 2016 at Culver Meadows with her family by her side. Bette was born on January 12, 1928 in Highland Park to the late William J. and Doris M. (Rutter) Radcliffe. On February 17, 1950 Bette married the love of her life, Kenneth F. James in Detroit. Bette was an accomplished singer and avid reader. She enjoyed gardening, sewing and spending time with her friends and family. She was preceded in death by her parents and son Mark, brother Douglas Radcliffe. Bette is survived by her husband of 66 years, Ken; children Barbara of Traverse City, Marjorie (David) Strahle of Fenton, Deborah (Pat) Jacobs of Swartz Creek, Carol of Sterling Heights; seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on December 20, at 12:00 pm at First Congregational Church followed by a luncheon. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Cherryland Humane Society or the First Congregational Church or to the Brick Ways Foundation. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories with the family. The family is being cared for by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.