Elizabeth Lewis, known as Betty or Lizzy to her family and friends, was born on the family farm in Reynolds County, MO on August 26, 1924 to Clarence and Alice Mann, part of a large family of 7 children. At the age of 14, she met the love of her life, Bud Lewis, who would visit the family while staying with his grandmother, under the guise of wanting to listen to the family radio, but with the real intention to see ‘Lizzy’. They began their courtship when she was 16 and married two years later. After his service in WWII, Bud and Betty moved to Kansas City where they raised four children, Dennis, Judy, Barbara, and Brenda. Betty’s life revolved around her family, her church, and her friends. She loved to serve, always ready with a meal or a cup of coffee and piece of homemade pie for any visitor. She was a great embodiment of hospitality, shown to both family as well as anyone arriving at her door.
She is preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Bud Lewis; her son, Dennis (Dennie); and daughter, Judy. She lived a long life and was happiest when having her grandchildren with her. She rarely went anywhere alone as she always had at least one or more of her grandchildren with her.
She is survived by her daughters, Barbara Collins and Brenda and James Laney; daughter-in-law, Elaine Lewis; and 26 grandchildren, great, and great-great grandchildren; as well as brothers, Ray Mann of Independence, MO, Kenny and Donna Mann of Warsaw; and sister, Faye Campbell of Halfway, MO.
“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. Her children rise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her”- Proverbs 31
A visitation to honor Betty will take place on Monday, October 4, 2021, from 6-8:00 p.m., with a service the following day, Tuesday, October 5 at 10:00 a.m., both at the Carson-Speaks Chapel, at 1501 W. Lexington Ave., Independence, MO 64052. The family has requested that all guests are to please wear a mask. Betty will be laid to rest at Floral Hills Cemetery in Kansas City, MO.
In Betty’s memory, the family suggests contributions to be made to the ALS Association, 1300 Wilson Blvd. Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22209. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Carson-Speaks Chapel (816) 252-7900).