Willie Ester Betts

Mr. Willie E. Betts

"Resting in the arms of our Savior. Take your rest. Your battle is over and now comes Peace."

Willie Ester Betts, also known as “Boonie,” was born on September 22, 1948 to parents Booker Thomas Betts and Viola Hessell Betts. He began singing as a young boy with his mother and brothers and accepted Christ as a result of their ministry. He continued singing for the years to come until he was unable to due to his illness. He was a devoted member of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church where Rev. Elijah Johnson, Jr. was his pastor. He served on the trustee board and song with the male choir as well as the mass choir. Vocationally, Willie worked as a logger and truck driver for 37 years until becoming disabled. He continued to serve the community as a landscaper until he was unable to continue.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents; brothers George H. Smith, Joseph T. Betts, Clarence Betts, Theoaph Betts, Donnie Ray Betts; sisters Joyce Betts, Autherine Betts, Joann Betts; son, Willie Jr.; daughters Diane and Angel.

Willie leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 50 years, Serleana Andrews Betts; 5 children, Herbert (Mary) Andrews, Serbreana Andrews, Rayvon Betts, Sheila Betts, and Rev. Thomas (Tina) Betts, Sr.; brother, Rev. John (Jannie) Betts, sister-in-law, Mary Betts; uncle, Roosevelt (Minnie Lou) Betts; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and relatives; devoted friends, Bill (Pat) Gwin and Willie (Dorothy) Lewis;

One of his favorite Scriptures comes from Job 1:21, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” He used this Scripture not only to encourage himself but to encourage others as they face trials and tribulations reminding them that it doesn’t matter how hard life may get, God is still worthy of all of our praises.

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