Gerald Bernard Betbeze, Sr

Gerald Bernard Betbeze, Sr., passed away peacefully and comfortably after having lived a happy, fulfilling life. He was a resident of Winston-Salem, NC and a native son of the city he dearly loved, Mobile, AL.

After graduating from Murphy High School, he received his bachelor’s degree in Industrial Management from Alabama Polytechnic Institute, known today as Auburn University. While there, he was a member of the Delta Chi social fraternity and a member of the marching band. He received his Master’s degree in Education from the University of Alabama.

Upon graduating from Alabama Polytechnic Institute, having already enlisted in the United States Air Force, he met and married the love of his life, Millicent King. They spent more than 66 years together, traveling the world and serving our country, enjoying life and raising their family. He leaves behind a great and treasured legacy.

Mr. Betbeze spent 15 years in the USAF as a reconnaissance pilot and later as a missile officer. He served at Yokata Air Base, Japan, where he flew missions over North Korea. He was involved with missile testing programs at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida and Hollaman Air Force Base, New Mexico as well as Missile Officer’s School, Orlando, Florida. After being transferred to Kadena Air Force Base, Okinawa and completing his service there, his last duty station was Kincheloe Air Force Base, Michigan, where he was honorably discharged.

Following his service to his country, he took several career paths, including middle school math teacher and manager of Eckerd/Rite Aid Pharmacy. Throughout his life, he loved watching sports, especially the Auburn Tigers and the Atlanta Braves.

Mr. Betbeze is survived by his loving wife, Millicent; children, James William Betbeze, Merrie Ann Betbeze Tolbert (Jim), Michael David Betbeze (Donna) and Gerald B. Betbeze, Jr. (Jane); ten grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; sister, Elizabeth Betbeze Richter; one brother, J. Gaines Betbeze (Betty); as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other cherished family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Cashmere Betbeze, Sr. and Alieen Bodder Betbeze; brother, William Cashmere Betbeze, Jr.; and sister, Sue Betbeze.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church on Thursday, January 30, 2020, with mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow in Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Spanish Fort, AL at 12:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given in his honor: St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 2605 Springhill Ave., Mobile, AL 36607; Secular Order of Servants of Mary, 3121 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, IL 60612; or Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com for the Betbeze family.