Alice E. Betz

Alice Ellsa Betz, 91, of Lakeland died in her home November 23, 2021 in the care of her sons and family. A native of St. Louis, MO, she moved to Lakeland in 1954, where her husband Richard opened Betz Service Station at the corner of Memorial and Lakeland Hills Blvds. The family moved into their present home in 1957, just months before construction began on Interstate 4.
As a young woman, she earned a pilot's license before she learned to drive a car. Her passions were caring for children and art. She made room for both as a Cub Scout Den Mother teaching arts and crafts to young men. She was recognized for her efforts in 1971 with the Silver Fawn, an award given exclusively to women scouters. Combined with her many years as a third-grade Sunday School teacher, she influenced three generations of children with her skill and love of crafts.
Her religion was an anchor in her life. A longtime member of the First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, she served as Church Hostess until 1977 when the church moved from Lake Mirror to Lake Hollingworth. Eventually, she joined the Assembly of God where she was active until her death.
Her goals in life were to be a good wife and mother. She accomplished both. She and her husband Richard celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary before he preceded her in death in 2000. Together they produced four sons: Sanford Kelly Betz, Edward George Betz, Dale Richard Betz, and Harry Matthew Betz. Her sons begat eight grandchildren, Heather Betz, Craig Betz, Sheenah Betz, Scott Betz, Stephanie Dougan, Kelly White, Katherine Moore, and Harrison Betz. They in turn have begotten: Brieanna Billar, Madison Billar, Alice Gregory, Brinley Betz, Janie Betz, Lila Betz, Xander White, Piper White, Oliver White, Katherine Dougan, James Dougan, and Benjamin Dougan.

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