Bettie Antes

Bettie Antes, the woman who could jive to an Elvis tune with more hip-shaking swagger than the King himself, has left the building. Born on January 30, 1942, Bettie twirled through life's dance floor and made her grand exit on December 17, 2024, leaving a trail of laughter, love, and the faint scent of blue suede shoes.

She was predeceased by a band of loved ones who set the stage for her great afterparty in the sky: her parents, Reva and Earl Jolly, who surely taught her the first steps to every good boogie; her sister Ruth Leis, with whom she must have shared countless giggles; her husband, Stub Antes, who was likely her favorite duet partner; her daughter, Robin Welsh, and son, Ronnie Evitts, who are no doubt part of the welcoming committee.

Yet Bettie's encore performance on earth is survived by siblings France Snyder and Judy Jolly, who will carry on the family tradition of spontaneous kitchen dance-offs. Her sons Joe, Jim, and Kelly Evitts, and daughter Christy Neely, are left to inherit her vast collection of Elvis memorabilia and the secret to her infectious chuckle. Bettie's nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren also remain as the adoring audience to the joyous life she led.

A connoisseur of celebrations, Bettie never missed an opportunity to turn up the music and declare any event a party. She saw a spark in everyone, igniting it with her love and laughter, and never met a stranger she couldn't turn into a friend—or at least a dance partner. Her unconditional love was like a hit single that never got old, always ready to be played again.

Bettie Antes's life was a masterclass in merriment, her spirit a beacon of joy. She didn't just walk into a room; she made a grand entrance. She didn't just listen to music; she became the rhythm. She didn't just exist in the world; she made it brighter, louder, and a whole lot more fun. Bettie lived her life her way as Elvis said it in his song "I did it my way"

So, let's not say goodbye to Bettie. Let's say, "Thank you, thank you very much," in true Elvis fashion, for the laughter, the dances, and the unapologetic zest for life she shared with us all. Rock on, Bettie. Your legacy is as timeless as the classics, and your memory will forever be our favorite tune.