Betty Ann Butcher

Betty Ann Butcher, of Portage; a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away, on November 16, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on October 14, 1937, in Vicksburg, Michigan. She was the daughter of Lawrence and Daisy (Barber) Grinder. 

Growing up in Vicksburg, Betty graduated from Vicksburg High School as a proud member of the Class of 1955. Her greatest pride, however, stemmed from her family. On April 14, 1962, Betty married the love of her life, Thomas Butcher. Together, they created a warm and loving home, a testament to a strong partnership built on faith and mutual respect. Betty’s capacity for love extended even further as she became a devoted grandmother, pouring her heart into creating lasting memories with her grandchildren.

After entering the workforce, she found fulfillment in her career as a school aide with Portage Public Schools, where she worked tirelessly in various buildings until her retirement in 1993. Betty was very proud to live in the City of Portage. She was always a fixture for any parades held in town with her favorite viewing location on the corner of Ruth Street and Westnedge Ave! Former location of one of her favorite restaurants Long John Silvers. 

Betty's commitment to her community extended to professional life. She embraced her roles as a cub scout den mother, scorekeeper for the church softball team, and a devoted supporter of little league baseball, Rocket Football, Portage North Junior High, Portage Northern High School, Grand Valley State, Western Michigan University and Michigan State Sports for her sons. If there was a game, she was always there to cheer us on! Her Passion for watching sports did not end when the sons stopped Playing. She continued to follow Portage Northern, Grand Valley, WMU, MSU, and U of M. She was also a Diehard Lions Fan!

Her passion for nurturing young minds and spirits continued as she served as a Sunday school teacher and volunteered in the church library. Betty’s profound generosity and devotion exemplified her love for education and community service.

 Those who knew Betty often described her as organized, faithful, spirited, independent, and strong-willed. Her sense of humor brought joy and light into every room.

 A proud founding member of Portage Free Methodist Church in 1963, what is now known as Renovations Church. Betty was deeply rooted in her faith and dedicated to the growth and well-being of her spiritual community. She also had a love of reading. 

 Betty Ann Butcher was not only a remarkable woman; she was a beacon of love and resilience whose legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of her family and friends. While she will be deeply missed, her vibrant spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

 She is preceded in death by her husband, Thomas; grandson: Tanner Flynn; parents: Lawrence and Daisy Grinder; three siblings: Doris Grinder, Charlie Grinder, and Dick Grinder. 

Betty is survived by her two sons: Terry (Lisa) Butcher, of Portage; Gary (Sally) Butcher, of Galesburg; five grandchildren: Rachel (Dan) Jarvis, of IN; Tiffany Butcher, of Portage; Tyler (Dana) Flynn, of Kalamazoo; Hayden Butcher, of Kalamazoo; and Haley Butcher, of Kalamazoo; two great grandchildren: Zoe and Ophelia Flynn. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as her kitty: Xavier. 

The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4pm to 7pm at the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Portage Chapel. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, November 22nd at 2pm. Burial at Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park. 

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign her guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with her family. Those who wish may make contributions to St Michael Lutheran School and/or Kalamazoo Community Presbyterian. 

The Butcher family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002 (269) 344-5600.