IN MEMORIAM: George Betts, 84;
Social Worker Turned To Farming
WORCESTER – George Betts, 84, of a social worker in New York City before moving here in 1984 to pursue farming, passed away on Oct. 2, 2018. He died peacefully after a long illness.
George was born June 30, 1934 in Highland Park, Ill., the son of Harlan and Ida Jane Betts.
He and his wife Regina met at an Off -Broadway theatre in New York City, where they both worked. They were married 61 years.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Thea (Orin) Griffin, Maia Betts, Christopher (Diane) Betts and Dion Betts; grandchildren, Dillon, Terrin, Joseph, Henry, Sidney, Joshua, Jacob, Daniel, Dora, Sarah, Michael, Rachel, Avery; his sister, Cynthia (Forrest) Johnson, and nieces, nephews, family and many friends.
George received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Columbia . A dedicated social worker and civil rights activist, he was devoted to improving lives of under-served people and a fearless advocate for those suffering injustices.
A member of the NAACP in New York City and, later, Oneonta, George was at the forefront of the deinstitutionalization of individuals with developmental disabilities.
In 1984, George and Regina moved to a Victorian farmhouse in Worcester to pursue his passion for farming, raising sheep and spending time with family.
George was an active member of Temple Beth El of Oneonta, where services were held today, followed by interment at Temple Beth El cemetery.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Oneonta chapter of the NAACP.
To send an online condolence please visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com Arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home, Oneonta.