Elizabeth "Betty" Susan Spencer

Elizabeth “Betty” Susan Spencer, 80, of Boyne City, Michigan, passed away peacefully on the morning of March 9, 2026, at The Brook in Boyne City, surrounded by family and dear friends whose lives she had touched so deeply.

Betty was born September 2, 1945, in Petoskey, Michigan, to Robert “Frank” Franklin Spencer and Winifred “Peg” Ruth (Holland) Spencer. She grew up in Boyne City, where she formed many of the lifelong friendships that would shape the story of her life.

She graduated from Boyne City High School in 1963, where she was known not only for her warm personality but also for her spirited nature — even playing all different kinds of sports and playing the drums in the school band.

Immediately after graduation, Betty began her long and dedicated career as a unit clerk at Little Traverse Hospital (now McLaren Northern Michigan) in Petoskey. What began as a first job became a calling. Over the course of more than four decades, until her retirement in 2007, Betty became a beloved fixture of the hospital community.

She was known for her tireless work ethic, her quick wit, and her ability to bring calm, humor, and kindness to what could often be a fast-paced and stressful environment. Colleagues recall her welcoming smile, her steady presence, and the way she made both staff and patients feel seen, heard, and cared for. Many friendships formed in those hospital corridors lasted throughout her life.

Betty’s capacity for friendship extended far beyond the workplace. As a young girl, she formed a bond with classmate Judy Kelts that grew into a lifelong connection with the entire Kelts family. “Bet Sue” as they often called her, was embraced as one of their own — a sister, a daughter, and later an “Auntie Betty” to the next generation. She shared a lifelong closeness with Judy and her siblings Jerry, Jeff, Justin, Jo, and Janet. If there was a Kelts gathering, celebration, or simple family outing, Betty was there, sharing laughter and creating memories that would be treasured for decades.

Those who knew Betty remember her as steady, reliable, and full of quiet joy. She loved being active and playful, equally at ease tossing a football or baseball with children as she was sharing a beer and relaxed conversation with adults afterward.

She had a deep appreciation for travel and adventure, enjoying trips across the country and memorable visits to Hawaii.

Betty enjoyed time with loved ones visiting casinos throughout Michigan, always more interested in companionship than winnings — though she was known for her careful, frugal play and her knack for walking away ahead. To those close to her, it was clear that Betty understood life’s true jackpot was the joy found in connection, friendship, and love.

Though baptized and raised in the Catholic faith, Betty’s spirituality was expressed most clearly through her actions. She lived by simple but profound principles: kindness over judgment, empathy over indifference, and her love and care for others above her own self-interest.

In her later years, as she faced the challenges of dementia, Betty was lovingly cared for by the wonderful staff at the Brook, her devoted friends Bea Grody, Darlene Lockery, Patty Jacobson (Davis) along with Betty’s family and the Kelts Family. Their presence at her side was a testament to the lasting impact she made on those fortunate enough to know her.

Betty was preceded in death by her father, Robert Franklin “Frank” Spencer (December 19, 1984), and her mother, Winifred Ruth “Peg” Spencer (May 11, 2001).

She is survived by her sister Ann Louise Spencer Ward of Boyne City, widow of Walter Martin Ward; her sister Mary Ellen Spencer Karl and her husband Paul Karl; and her brother Robert Franklin “Rob” Spencer III. She is also survived by her nephews Martin “Marty” Ward, Todd Ward, and Robert Franklin “Frankie” Spencer IV and his wife Olivia; her niece Amy Karl Davis and her husband Bruce; and her great‑niece Jenna Davis, great‑nephews Spencer Davis, and Ryan Davis.

Betty will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, her many dear friends, and all whose lives were enriched by her enduring kindness.

A memorial service honoring Betty’s life will be held on June 14, 2026, at the Boyne City Community Pavilion. Time: 12PM to 4PM 

Memorial contributions could be made to the BCHS Girls Softball Team, and/or The Field of Dreams Baseball field in Boyne City.

Arrangements are in the care of Stackus Funeral Home.