Bettie Claire Thomas Withers

Bettie Claire Thomas Withers, born December 20, 1946, died peacefully on December 26, 2015. The eldest of five born to Robert Claire and Exzenia Grace Thomas, Bettie was followed by her two sisters Claudette and Beverly, and her two brothers James and Michael.

She was lovingly raised by her grandmother in Pelham, Texas. In 1965, she relocated to Minneapolis, Minnesota to pursue her career in the medical field, where she became affectionately known as “Ms. Bettie.” In 1970, she married Edward Withers, Jr., and continued to serve as a patient advocate and community representative for Hennepin County Medical Center for nearly 30 years.

Bettie devoted her life to her family. Joining her grandmother, parents, sister (Claudette), aunts and uncles, Bettie is survived by her two daughters, Courtnie (37) and Lindsay (35). Friends are invited to gather with the family at 1 pm on January 4, 2016 at the Cremation Society of Minnesota at 4343 Nicollet Ave. So. A funeral service will be celebrated at 2 pm in the chapel. Following the service will be a Celebration of Life at St. Peter’s AME Church, 401 East 41st Street, Minneapolis.

Ms. Bettie leaves behind a host of family and friends who will forever cherish her memory. The family appreciates all prayers and support.