Age 86, died unexpectedly Sunday, August 2, 2015 at Silver Maples of Chelsea. She was born August 9, 1928 in Berwyn, Illinois, the daughter of Paul Leander & Bessie (Boileau) Bates. Betty graduated with a Bachelors Degree in vocal Music Education of Arts from Cornell College in Iowa, and received her Masters in Music from the University of Michigan. She taught vocal music while in college. Betty sang in the choir at the First United Methodist Church in Ann Arbor for over 45 years, where she and Jim were long-time members.
Betty was a member and former State President of the Ann Arbor PEO. She played the organ for the Sunday service at Silver Maples in Chelsea, where she had lived for twelve years. She also performed recitals with the violinist Lajos at Silver Maples.
On August 28, 1954, she married James W. Lester in Oak Park, Illinois, and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, David (Rebecca) of Spring Hill, TN, Jamie (Shannan) of Coldwater, MI; two grandchildren, Eric and Drew Lester; a brother-in-law, Thomas (Brenda) Lester of La Jolla, CA. She was preceded in death by her brother, George Bates.
A memorial service was held Friday, August 7, 1:30 pm at Silver Maples of Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. A private burial will be at Ann Arbor First United Methodist Church Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Silver Maples Scholarship Fund. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.
Please sign Betty's online guestbook and leave a message or memory for her family.