Rita Kay Betts

Rita Kay Betts, 68, of Waterloo, formerly of Evansdale, died Wednesday, November 11, 2020 at Ravenwood Specialty Care of natural causes. She was born April 18, 1952 in Waterloo the daughter of Irven and Alfreda Bedard Wirtz.

She met Lonny Betts in 1976 and were united in marriage on January 25, 1997. He preceded her in death on January 13, 2012. They were the two kindest people you would every meet and loved one another unconditionally.

Rita worked as a bus driver for Waterloo Schools for over 30 years. She owned and operated Cedar Valley Redemption Center, where she worked with her brother and sister, retiring in 2012.

Rita spent her life helping those who were in need. She always worried about others, never judged anyone or anything, and always just wanted to help. She never complained about anything, always strong as a rock, and never wanted to be a burden to anyone. If she was going through a tough time, she always stayed strong for everyone, as she was unselfish. She was a great mother, who taught her children to appreciate others and life and to always give to the less fortunate. Rita was a great and loving person and will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Survived by: three sons, Lenny Betts of Waterloo, Teddy (Teffany) Barker of Waterloo, Tony (Shane) Barker of Waterloo; one daughter, Amanda (Aaron Burch) Betts of New Hartford; 13 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren and a special niece, Stacy (Shane) Utsler of Hudson.

Preceded in death by: her parents; husband; two sisters, Kathy Thomas, Barbara Wirtz; two brothers, Keith Wirtz and one in infancy; and her mother-in-law, Florence Hayes.