Betty Jean Chess, 87, of Ocala, Florida, passed away at home after a long illness, on April 18, 2024, surrounded by her family.
Betty was born November 24, 1936 in Flint, Michigan and was the daughter of Lloyd M. Hart and Geraldine V. (Wright) Hart.
Betty spent her summers camping in Lake City, Michigan where she met Jim Chess.
They were married in Lapeer, Michigan on August 22, 1953, by her uncle, the Reverend Paul Hart.
The couple relocated to San Antonio, Texas for Jim’s service in the Air Force, later moving to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where Betty worked as an administrative assistant at Johnson and Johnson Enterprises.
Betty and Jim purchased a manufacturing company in Ardmore, Oklahoma in 1973 and ran the business until retiring to Florida.
Betty loved life, laughter and fun activities with friends and family. She enjoyed being outdoors, sailing, shopping and traveling abroad.
Betty is survived by her husband, James W. Chess, their daughter, Suzanne and grandchildren; Sarah, Lisa, Alex and Sam, one great- grandchild; Mona and many cherished nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Karen L. Riggs.