Obituary of Betty Besedich

Betty Lorene Fortner was born on March 29, 1934. She was one of six children born from the union of the late Major Clarence and Montana (Sweat) Fortner. Betty graduated from Monroe High School with the Class of 1954. She married the love of her life, Nikola Besedich, on September 22, 1954 at Monroe Missionary Baptist Church. Together the couple would raise three children. Betty was special to everyone. Her affection toward children quickly led her to become known as "Mom" or "Aunt Betty" to not only her own family but to all children she came in contact with. Being a social butterfly, Betty especially enjoyed having her family around including her grandchildren, and delighted in preparing and hosting holiday meals for everyone. Having an appreciation for the outdoors, Betty loved to garden and enjoyed canning all the fruits of her labor. She worshipped at the North Monroe Street Church of God and was a frequent fixture for weekly Bible study at the House of Restoration. Betty cherished her quiet time with the Lord in His Word. Betty Lorene Besedich, age 80, of Monroe passed away at 11:36pm on December 8, 2014 at home surrounded by her loving family. In addition to her parents her passing was preceded by her husband, Nikola Besedich; one brother: Arnold Fortner; and two sisters: Joyce (Earl) Valentine and Donna Moody. To cherish her memory, Betty leaves three children: Patricia (Richard) Besedich of LaSalle, Tommy Besedich and David Besedich of Monroe; two brothers: Robert (Betty) Fortner and Jerry Fortner of Monroe; a sister-in-law: Phyllis Fortner of Monroe; a brother-in-law: Bill Moody of Monroe; three grandchildren: David (Lindsey) Besedich of Nashville, Drew Besedich of Monroe and Richard Roberts III of Toledo; three great grandchildren: Bennett, Gentry and Emory; and several nieces and nephews. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm on Friday December 12, 2014 at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway (734)241-7070. Betty will lie in state from 10:00am until a Celebration of Her Life at 11:00am on Saturday, December 13, 2014 at the North Monroe Street Church of God Mountain Assembly. Reverend Rick Massingill pastor of the church and Pastor Michael Anthony of the House of Restoration co-officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn. Memorial Donations are suggested to the family. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or send a floral arrangement by visiting www.merklefs.com; selecting the Online Tributes page.