Donna Jean Betts

Donna Jean Betts, 91, of Whipple died peacefully on Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024.

She lived near Marietta her entire life, being raised in Norwood and then always living near Stanleyville. She was a woman of varying interests and dedications over the years. She always wore her trademark black Stetson hat.

People may know her from any number of passions including softball, chuck wagons at SAIDA campground, playing piano, organ and accordion, Fearing Township Volunteer Fire Department, driving school bus, Cackleberry farm tours, Marietta City School Board, Camp Hervida Women’s camps, rotational grazing education, and Berg Church restoration and genealogy. She spent the last half of her life dedicated to holistic medicine and was vital in starting the Marietta Farmer’s Market. She was a strong supporter of women’s rights, especially the role of women in farming.

She was preceded in death by her parents Albert and Icyl Berg, sons Darren Weppler and Vance Biehl, two grandchildren, and one great grandchild. She is survived by her children Rebecca (John) Hartline, Milton (Linda) Weppler, Denise Weppler, Lhan (Lisa) Weppler, Blayn Weppler, and Yvette (Mike) Nau. Also surviving are 20 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren.

A private graveside service was held September 26th at Berg Church cemetery. McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home is assisting the family and messages of sympathy may be sent at www.Lankfordfh.com.

Anyone wishing to honor her memory can give to the Berg Church fund at www.bergchurch.org.