A DEATH
HAS OCCURRED
june 25, 1951 – june 1, 2024
In the vibrant heart of Cincinnati, Ohio, a legend was born on June 25, 1951. Darrell Betts Sr., the third of four adventurous children to the late David D. and Gladys Betts Sr., embarked on a life journey that would leave an indelible mark on everyone he met.
Darrell’s early years were filled with the excitement of Corryville and Avondale neighborhoods, where he attended Columbian Elementary School, and the lively streets of lower Mt. Auburn, where he graced Taft Elementary School. His teenage years saw him navigating the halls of Hughes High School before conquering the challenges at Courter Tech for his final four years.
In 1969, fresh out of high school and with a heart full of courage, Darrell enlisted in the US Navy Corps. His time in the Navy was marked by dedication and honor, culminating in his honorable discharge in March of 1971. Darrell then channeled his energy into a remarkable 37-year career with Ford Motor Company, a testament to his unwavering commitment and hard work.
Love blossomed for Darrell during his high school years when he met his soulmate, Donna. Their love story culminated in a beautiful wedding on February 19, 1972, and from their union sprang three remarkable children: Darrell Jr. (Ericka), Darrick (Aida), and Dawn (Kevin, Sr.).
Family was the epicenter of Darrell’s world. He was a maestro in the kitchen, creating culinary delights, and a master landscaper, tending to his lawn with the precision of a craftsman. Darrell was the handiest of handymen and love to build and fix things. He loved listening to gospel music. His passion for sports was evident as he coached and avidly attended his kids and grandkids’ games, cheering them on with unbridled enthusiasm. He loved a good boxing or UFC/MMA match and excitedly enjoyed watching any sport with a ball!
Darrell journeyed through life with unwavering faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and spreading God’s message of love to anyone willing to listen. His words were a beacon of godly wisdom, offering sage advice to all who sought his counsel. We will all miss his common sense and humorous phrases.
While Darrell was preceded in death by his two brothers David Betts, Jr. and Vance Betts, he leaves behind his loving sister, Charnee’ Smith (Landon). Darrell’s legacy is carried forward by his 11 wonderful grandchildren: Darren, Aaron, Dior, Simeon, Drea, Emilio, Isaiah, Kenslee, Kevin Jr., Kierra, and Kehley. His influence extended to two cherished Godsons, Derrick (Deana) and Terrance (Crystal), and three beloved bonus daughters, Shirley, Merry (Marvin) and Leah (and her son AJ) and a host of bonus sons.
On June 1, 2024, Darrell answered the call to join the Lord in one of God’s many mansions. Though he has departed, his story of love, dedication, faith in the Lord, and zest for life will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. With that, we leave you with one of Darrell’s famous phrases, “Take Prayer!”
Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM
Vineyard Cincinnati Church
Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 9:45 AM – 10:45 AM
Vineyard Cincinnati Church
Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 11:00 AM
The Arlington Memorial Gardens
“Donna and family, Rodney and I send our deepest condolences to you. I pray for peace that surpasses all natural understanding. I know Darrell will be sorely missed, and he is not lost for you know where he is and you will see him again in that great getting up morning. I’ll be praying for you all. ❤️🙏🏽 -Rodney and Evelyn Suesberry”
06/16/2024
“We are sending our deepest condolences to the family . I am thankful that my daughter Shona knew such a wonderful man and family. She always spoked highly of him.”
06/08/2024
“To the Betts family sorry for your loss sending prayers love🙏🙏🙏🙏 and condolences”
06/07/2024
“To The Betts Family, we’re sending our Deepest Condolences to you all. Darrell will be Greatly missed …….Just know this; that the ALMIGHTY GOD JEHOVAH has the ability to RESURRECT….as I was reading an article on: jw.org, I came across this…For the One with the ability and power to create man in His own image, with a perfect body and with the potential for full expression of the marvelous characteristics implanted in the human personality,, it would pose no insurmountable problem to resurrect an individual…. See you Darrell soon… Love You All”
06/07/2024
“We are sending our condolences to the family, Mr Betts was truly genuine and blessing to have known and work with. 🙏🏽🙏🏽”
06/06/2024
“I send my love and care to the family as you all go through this valley experience together. Support, love and cherish every moment that you have with each other. If there is any need, my family is here to provide any needs you have. Stay lifted in prayer and know that the memory will forever live on. Tears will not pass quickly, but sorrow will lift, but your memories will live forever. Be loved family.”
06/06/2024
“This one really hurts… Darrell was my big cousin; he was like a brother to my mom (Zoe). Everything about Darrell was good. He was a great role model for my brothers Terry and Tracy. I remember Darrell would come over and he and my mom would talk about the Bible for hours. My grandmother Darrell’s Aunt Edna loved him so much! He would always bring a smile to her face. Darrell was an amazing husband and dad…Darrell and Donna were my Huxtables. Darrell, may you rest in Everlasting Peace. I love you and I know God will say “Well Done My Good and Faithful Servant”. Tange”
06/06/2024
“Coach Betts, Thank you for your knowledge, support, patience, guidance, and coaching over the years. Whoever knew the lessons would reach beyond basketball and apply to real world/life situations. I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to learn from you- (Even if I rolled my eyes or didn’t want to hear it🥰) Thank you💙 Mrs. Betts, Derrick, Dawn & family, there will never be the right words to say. If I may add I know God will dispatch his angels of comfort and healing around all of you for he was definitely a wonderful soul. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. I pray you all find solace in that scripture, (extremely powerful) Love you all, Henrietta”
06/05/2024
“Big Darrell will be truly missed he was a good person. I love yal❤️”
06/05/2024
“Big “D”, Thank you for your words of wisdom, guidance and direction. Now take your rightful seat in Heaven brother. We’ll see you on the other side “BIG D”. Greatly Missed Aready… David, Dionne, & Davia.”
06/05/2024
“Many prayers and much love to this loving and dynamic family! You are in our thoughts during this time”
06/05/2024
“My heart is filled that God let us experience being welcomed in by papa D. and mom Donna’s family. They demonstrated love for each other family and friends. I was blessed to be present and a small part or their 50th wedding anniversary and vowel renewals it was an amazing event! So much love and happiness! I will miss his earthly presence, however I cherish my memories. Love always 💖 Take prayer…”
06/05/2024
“Now you and pops meet again, now they have two superheroes up there together. You will be missed but never forgotten love you pops.”
06/05/2024
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