Bettie, of Howell, formerly of Gladwin and Farmington, as well as Sebring, FL, passed away peacefully on Wednesday afternoon, October 1, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and vibrant living.  She was 94 years old.

Bettie was born April 20, 1931, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to the late Harold and Grace (Linder) Kneeves.

Bettie began her professional journey managing the credit union at Farmington Hills' Star Cutter Co. She later excelled as head accountant and chief controller at L & H Wood Company, dedicating 25 years of service before retiring in 1996. Her precision, leadership, and commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on her colleagues and peers.

A lifelong athlete, Bettie was known for her prowess on the tennis court, golf course, and bowling lanes. She was a fierce competitor and an equally gracious teammate. Alongside her partner, Jackie Dix, Bettie dominated bowling tournaments from 1965 to 1980. Her talents extended to the Farmington Racquet Club, where she held the top seed since its inception, excelling in singles, doubles, and teaching strategy classes for doubles tennis. Bettie also enjoyed participating in two golf leagues, where her sportsmanship and skill were admired.

Known affectionately as a "card shark," Bettie relished time at the table with family and friends, showcasing her sharp wit and competitive spirit.

Bettie was preceded in death by her two husbands, Orville Harper in 1987 and Robert VanEvery in 2012. Together with Orville, she built a cottage in Gladwin in 1980, which she and Bob lovingly completed, making it a cherished retreat until 2015. Afterward, Bettie embraced new chapters of life in Howell, residing in a condo for eight years before moving to Oakhaven Manor Senior Community.

Her creativity and thoughtfulness shone through her intricate handiwork. For over 30 years, she crocheted 150 ornaments each Christmas to enclose in holiday cards, retiring the tradition in 2023. Bettie also crafted stunning afghans and crocheted elegant centerpieces for every family wedding. Every new grandchild was welcomed with a lovingly handmade blanket, a testament to her warmth and care.

Bettie's family and friends will forever treasure her boundless love, unwavering strength, and vibrant presence. She leaves behind countless memories of laughter, competition, creativity, and unconditional kindness.

Surviving are four devoted children, Linda (Larry) Beacom, Brad (Wendy) Harper, Shary (Rob) Weir, and Bill (Daleen) Harper; her brother, Danny (Beverly) Kneeves; ten cherished grandchildren, Rob (Melissa) Walter, Toni (Rick) Sherwood, Leah (Kurt) Heydenburg, Chris (Sarah) Harper, Hilary (Sean) Kammeraad, Timothy Weir, Jamie (Keith) Ozment, Katie (Jensen) Hoffmann, Bradly Harper and Andrew (Angie) Harper; 22 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren.  Bettie is also survived by a step-daughter from her marriage to Robert VanEvery, Sharon (Terry) Wayne, and her two children and 4 grandchildren. In addition to her husbands, Bettie was preceded in death by two brothers, Gene and Harold "Bud" Kneeves, and grandsons, Alan Beacom in 1994, and Joshua Sherwood in 2020.

Family and friends may gather for visitation at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in downtown Farmington on Wednesday, October 8, from 2-8 pm.

Bettie's funeral ceremony is planned for Thursday morning, October 9th, at 11:00 am, also at Heeney-Sundquist.  Interment will follow at Parkview Memorial Cemetery in Livonia.

Memorial tributes are kindly suggested to the Alzheimer's Associatio n, the American Cancer Society or the VFW .