Betty Jean (Roberts) Needels, age 68, departed this life on February 12, 2022, at her home, in Winona, Missouri. She was born on August 21, 1953, to William Eugene “Gene” and Betty June (Tucker) Roberts, in the doctor’s office in Van Buren, Missouri. On August 29, 1970, Betty was united in marriage to Clifford Dale Needels, and to this union, six children were born, Dayla, Gayla, Angela, Valerie, Jonathan, and Bob.
Betty devoted her life to being the best wife and mother she could be. She strived to make each of her children feel special and loved in such a way as to make them feel they were her “favorite.” The truth being, they were all, indeed, her favorite. This loving devotion was carried on as God blessed her with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She could bring a room to life with her infectious laugh. Betty was the central part of many family get-togethers, and her home was a place, she loved to share with others. She lived for the family gatherings, with music, good food, family, friends, and neighbors all around. This brought so much joy and comfort to so many people.
Throughout the course of her children growing up, her home was shared with many, many, young people, and they still remember her generosity today. Many family members, as well, can remember her door being open to them. When circumstances were such and they needed help from somewhere, she was that person. The one you could rely on, and so many people did just that.
Betty will also be remembered for her singing voice, which was enjoyed by so many. She loved music, particularly country music. She had accumulated a vast record collection and spent many hours enjoying listening to them. This brought her the rest and relaxation she so richly deserved.
She is preceded in death by her father, William “Gene” Roberts; brother, William “Bill” Roberts, Jr.; sister, Rebecca Lynn Barnes; and a great-granddaughter, Jaycee Iler.
Betty is survived by her husband, Clifford Needels; her mother, Betty Roberts; six children, Dayla Needels (Harley Grubb) of Van Buren, MO, Gayla Phipps (Larry) of Winona, MO, Angela Needels (Ronnie McQuerry) of Eminence, MO, Valerie Schultz (Kenny) of Winona, Jonathan Needels (Tanya) of Winona, and Bob Needels (Susie) of Winona; three sisters, Glenda Burns (Roger), Brenda Counts (Rex), and Beverly Roberts all of Winona; nineteen grandchildren; and twenty-four great-grandchildren.
As a child, Betty’s grandmother, Opal Roberts, began calling her, “Betty Boop”. It’s a nickname we will always use, lovingly, in numerous conversations we will have in the future when reminiscing about all the good times shared with “Betty Boop”.
Betty will be greatly missed and never forgotten. She will live on in the hearts of many lives she touched and blessed.
