Early on Sunday, June 22, 2025, Bettye Arlene Clark transitioned peacefully into eternal rest. In the words of Scripture, she has entered a place “where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest.”
Born on February 26, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, Bettye was a cherished daughter of the late Jimmy and Mattie Frazier. She was one of several siblings and was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Christine McCoy and Geraldine Mitchell; her brother Tyrone Banks; and her great-nephew, Darnell “Tray” D. Johnson II.
Bettye accepted Christ at an early age at Peoples Protestant Church in Cassopolis, Michigan, under the leadership of Reverend Roy Jones. Her faith remained a guiding light throughout her life. She lived with a deep and abiding love for the Lord and served Him faithfully in all seasons.
Bettye’s educational journey began in the Chicago Public Schools and continued after her family relocated to Cassopolis, Michigan. A proud graduate of Cassopolis High School, she was active in band and cheerleading, and graduated with honors in 1968. She pursued higher education with great passion, beginning at Eastern Michigan University and ultimately completing her undergraduate degree at Central Michigan University .
Bettye met Ronnie when she was 16 years old. Ronnie courted her and impressed her by showing up for dates in a different car every time. They courted while Bettye attended Eastern Michigan University and Ronnie was attending Western Michigan University. They united in holy matrimony in 1971 and both transferred and graduated from Central Michigan University while their love story continued.
Bettye’s life was defined by service and leadership. A dedicated educator, she began her career teaching students with emotional impairments in Benton Harbor Area Schools. Over the years, she served as a teacher, supervisor, principal, and director—ultimately retiring from The School District for the City of Pontiac in 2010. Her professional journey spanned several states, including Michigan, Kansas, Maryland, and Missouri, where she left an enduring impact on students, families, and fellow educators alike.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Bettye was devoted to her family. She and Ronnie were blessed with two daughters: Teni (Shawn) Franklin, and Maya Clark. She took immense pride in her six grandchildren: Zyair Clark, Nevaeh Franklin, Niah Franklin, Zavion Clark, Devonte Dixon and Vertina Hatten with whom she shared countless cherished moments.
Bettye found great joy in life’s simple pleasures—being lovingly spoiled by her husband. She loved to brag on how well he cooked. She enjoyed shopping, eating seafood, and spending time with her family. She especially delighted in her role as “Grammie & Morning,” titles she wore with pride, grace and joy.
Another love in Bettye’s life was Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Bettye’s dream of sisterhood was realized in the spring of 1971 when she was initiated into the Xi Chapter at Eastern Michigan University. She was a Golden Soror, a Lifetime Member, and a Charter Member of the Iota Iota Omega Chapter in Benton Harbor, Michigan—her dedication to the organization was unwavering and deeply meaningful.
Bettye’s memory will be lovingly cherished by her husband of 53 years, Ronnie E. Clark; her bonus daughter: Nykula (Douglas) Hatten of Louisville, KY. Her daughters: Teni (Shawn) Franklin of Oak Park, MI; and Maya Clark of Rochester Hills, MI. She is also survived by three sisters: Cassandra “Polly” Banks, Beverly “Jean” Banks, and Constance “Connie” Banks; five brothers: Jimmie Banks, Frank Banks, Lamar (Jayne) Banks, Terry (Cynthia) Banks, and Jermone (Kattie) Banks. She leaves behind her six beloved grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, Sorors, colleagues, and lifelong friends.
Bettye’s life was a testimony of love, faith, and service. She touched countless lives and leaves behind a beautiful legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Robbins Brothers Funeral Home, Benton Harbor.
Services
PUBLIC VISITATION
Monday
July 7, 2025
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Fellowship Baptist Church
171 N. Euclid Ave.
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Monday
July 7, 2025
12:00 PM
Fellowship Baptist Church
171 N. Euclid Ave.
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
INTERMENT FOLLOWING FUNERAL SERVICE
Monday
July 7, 2025
North Shore Memory Gardens
5027 M 63 N
Coloma, MI 49038
Posted On: Thursday, July 3, 2025 3:52 PM
