Obituary of Betty Black

Betty Jean Black November 29, 1939—June 19, 2012 Betty Jean Black was born in Brookhaven, Mississippi on November 29, 1939. She was the daughter of the late Vernice Black and the late Fannie Mae (Levi) Black. Betty moved to Monroe from Adrian approximately 25 years ago. For eighteen years, Betty was employed in the dry cleaning business as a launderer and presser. Betty was a gentle, kind, friendly person who had a quiet soul. She valued helping others, especially as a volunteer for the Associated Charities of Lenawee County. She had the ability to make every person feel special. Betty had a contagious smile and no one could resist smiling back at her. Her conversations always contained a laugh. Betty enjoyed playing cards and bingo. She also loved to fish, sew, and bake. Betty especially treasured spending time with her family. She was a hard worker who liked to stay busy. Her motto was, "If you can take it apart, you can put it back together." Betty Jean Black, age 72, passed away at 12:38 am, Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at Mercy Memorial Hospital. In addition to her parents, her death was preceded by a sister: Georgia Lee Meyers, a daughter: Pamela, and two grandsons: David Lee Bridges and Aaron Johnson. To cherish her memory, Betty leaves behind four daughters: Bobbie Bridges of Monroe, Debbie Johnson of Monroe, Cassandra (James) May of Mississippi, and Veronica Evans of Monroe; four sons: Vernon Evans of Monroe, Bernard (Melissa) Evans of Adrian, Larry (Brana) Russell of Adrian, and Milton Russell of Adrian; 31 grandchildren: Pamela, Tammy, Myron, Raeshawna, Raedonna, Jonathon, Chellsie, Joycelyn, Ryan, Marquis, Justin, Justice, Johanna, Camiya, Al'Shahazz, Shakeayla, Diamond, Pearl, Jordan, Christian, William, Jsalantee, Jayla, Lyric, Dustin, Mystic, Devonte, Jashawn, Nikki, Skyshun, and Aleah; and several great-grandchildren. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm Sunday, June 24, 2012 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Her Life will take place at 10:00am on Monday, June 25, 2012, also at Merkle's. The Reverend Russell Henagen, Pastor of Second Baptist Church in Adrian, will officiate. Procession will follow to Oakwood Cemetery, 333 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian. Memorial donations for those who desire are suggested to the family. Online guests may leave condolences, share a photo, make a donation, or send floral arrangements by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.