Betty Allene Routsong

Betty Allene Routsong, 91, passed away December 19, 2018 in her beloved Traverse City.

Betty was born on December 6, 1927 in Traverse City to the late Anthony and Grace (Struble) Eikey. She graduated from Traverse City High School in 1946. As a young woman she worked on Mackinac Island as the elevator operator at the Grand Hotel, and as a waitress at the Pink Pony. Later she waited tables at Win Schuler's in Traverse City.

On May 14, 1953 Betty married Gary Routsong in Ridgeland, South Carolina. Together they had three children, Carla "CJ", Paula, and John. She loved raising her children and caring for them. One of her greatest titles was Nana. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and especially taking them to the bay in the summer. Her cherished kitty cats also brought her much joy. Gary was a member of The Back Room Gang who regularly played dixieland jazz at Dill's Olde Towne Saloon, where Betty was known as "Sweet Mama" to many dear friends. She fondly remembered the good ole days with her family.

Betty will be greatly missed by her family; CJ (Richard) Conder of Grand Rapids, MI, Paula (Bill) Egan of Chicago, IL, and John Routsong of Traverse City; grandchildren Mackenna (Christopher) Morse, William Routsong, Kathryn (David) Caughlan, Clarisa Egan, Christina Egan, and William Egan; and great grandchildren Mayla, Harrison, Grayson, Joseph, Nathaniel, and Emily.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister Dorothy Seeley, brother William Eikey, and son-in-law Bill Egan.

The service celebrating and honoring Betty's life will be held on December 28, 2018 at 11:00 am at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in memory of Betty may be directed to Cherryland Humane Society.