Betty Jean Norton

All who knew Betty Norton would agree that she was truly beautiful on the inside and out. She was thoughtful and caring with a heart that beat to serve others in ways both great and small. Betty was deeply devoted to her loved ones, and she was the most amazing mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother that anyone could ask for. She worked hard and gave everything her all, even if the personal sacrifice was great. Life will never be the same without Betty here, but she leaves behind a timeless legacy that her loved ones will proudly carry on in her footsteps. The year 1941 is often recalled as the year of the vicious attack on our naval base in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Although America had remained neutral during WWII until this point, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was left with no choice but to declare war the very next day. It was just prior to this historic day that Willard and Margaret Calvert were filled with unspeakable joy as they announced the birth of the baby girl they named Betty Jean on March 31, 1941, in Three Rivers, Michigan. In many ways she was a young girl of her generation, and it was while growing up that Betty's kind and generous spirit was born. New and exciting changes were in store for Betty when she met the young man of her dreams. His name was Clarence "Shorty" Coryell, and they met at the roller rink in Plainwell. They began dating, and it didn't take them long to fall in love. With the desire to spend the rest of their lives together Betty and Shorty were married on December 26, 1958. As a young newlywed she went back to school and graduated from Plainwell High School in 1959. Together Betty and Shorty welcomed two children, Crystal and Viola, into their hearts and home. Sadly, Shorty passed away at a young age, leaving Betty on her own to raise their young children. Although she married Roy Norton in 1977, Shorty forever remained the love of her life. Throughout her life Betty was one to keep busy. She was an amazing mother who set a wonderful example for her daughters. To support her family, Betty was a factory worker at various places over the years. In everything she did, Betty gave it her all, and one of the places she loved to be was in her kitchen. She was an amazing baker, and it has been said that she made the best fudge and banana bread. Luckily, her daughters will be able to pass on her legendary recipes. Betty didn't have a lot of free time to pursue interests, but she did love classic country music. With a life that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Betty Norton made a significant impact in the lives of so many around her. Although she could be a bit strong willed at times, she was one of the most loving, gracious, and kindhearted people one could ever meet. Betty faced times of trial, but she faced whatever came her way head on and counted each and every day she was given as though it was a gift that was tailor made just for her. Deeply loved, Betty will be forever missed. Betty Jean (Coryell) Norton, of Plainwell passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2019, at the age of 78. Betty's family includes her two daughters: Crystal (Terry) McWIlliams, of Martin; Viola (Dave) Granger, of Shelby, OH; six grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence "Shorty" Coryell; her parents; and step parents. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, October 23, at 11 a.m. at the McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Marshall-Gren Chapel, 120 S. Woodhams, Plainwell 269-685-5881. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service beginning at 10am. Burial of Betty's ashes will be at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Orangeville. Please visit Betty's webpage at www.mccowensecord.com where you can share a memory with the family. Those who wish may make contributions to the VFW, American Heart Association and American Lung Association.