Betty Jean Spence was born on August 6, 1926 to Simon and Julia Spence in Howard City, Michigan. She was one of nine children and outlived all of her siblings.

She met and married the love of her life, James C. Baker Jr. in Howard City, Michigan on June 2, 1950. They were married for 37 years.

Betty had two children Julia A. Burk and Randall J. (Teresa) Baker; one grandchild Heather (Mathew) Sanders; three great grandchildren Sutton Sanders, Joplin Sanders and Carter Sanders. She also had two step children Timothy J. Baker and Suzanne Mozley.

Betty worked from Traverse City State Bank that would eventually become Fifth Third. She also worked for Dr. Warren Cline in his office for many years til she was forced to retire to care for Jim. She was an excellent care giver.

When Betty and Jim moved to Traverse City, they built their home on West Bay that became her Sanctuary. She loved carrying for her vegetable and flower gardens and proudly maintained the lawn in the summer and over 300' driveway in the winter with her push behind snow blower. She lived there for 63 years.

To say Betty was strong willed would be an understatement – it's what kept her going to almost 100 years of age and helped her weather a few storms along the way. She furiously loved her family right up til the end.

As were her wishes, cremation has taken place. Betty's immediate family will hold a private service for her next summer.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Villa at Traverse Point and Hospice of Michigan for the excellent care and respect they gave Betty.

Memorial contributions in her honor may be directed to Cherryland Humane Society.