Laura Willie Bettis, 62, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2023, in Chandler, Arizona.
Laura was born on July 15, 1960, in Washington D.C. to loving parents Virginia Lee Willie and Billy Jack Willie. Growing up with her five siblings, her childhood was filled with love and shared memories. Laura graduated from Southern High School in Maryland in 1978. She embraced motherhood in 1986, after giving birth to her daughter Lisa, followed by her daughter Sandra in 1989. Laura made the heartfelt decision to move to Phoenix, Arizona in 1994 to be surrounded by her family.
Laura enjoyed helping others and devoted her career by becoming a social worker for the state for over 25 years. Her passions included spending treasured moments with her family and vacationing at the serene beach. Laura’s biggest accomplishment was adopting her grandson, Jacob Willie Bettis, in 2018. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy and cherished every moment spent with them.
Laura is survived by her daughter Lisa (Brian); her grandchildren Jaimie, CJ, Zoey, Hailey, Jacob, and Bentley; her sisters Sandee (Joan), and Donna (Chris); her brothers Steve (Kathy), and David (Cynthia); along with many other extended family members who loved her very much.
Laura has now joined her loved ones in heaven; her daughter Sandra, her parents Billy and Virginia, and her brother Brian.
While her presence will be deeply missed, her spirit and the memories she created will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A memorial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 19, 2023, at Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 East Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, AZ 85297. For more information, please visit www.gilbertmemorialpark.com
I was so sorry to hear of Laura’s passing. We were 1st cousins. Laura’s father Bill was my father’s brother (Charlie Willie). I have so many memories being together with Laura, especially during the holidays – most noteably at Christmas. We were always together when visiting the Willie family. There were many parties & celebrations when they lived in Camp Springs, MD. My sincere condolences to the family during this difficult time. I love you Laura & know you are with our loved ones who are no longer with us. Praying for the family. Kelly Willie White.
Bless her heart. We use to text. She was so thrilled when she adopted her grandson. I’m so sorry her family had to lose her so soon. She was an awesome lady.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time. My husband and I have very fond memories of Laura. Her kindness and caring will not be forgotten. To Lisa, our beautiful daughter-in-law, we wish you peace, strength and lots of love at this time of sorrow. A mother’s love is always with her children and grandchildren and she will always be with you all. May her love surround you now and bring you peace.