Betty Ann Howard, 81, of Remus, passed away peacefully early in the morning on Friday, December 3, 2010 in Saginaw, leaving the family with a sunrise as beautiful as she was. She was born on July 8, 1929, to Arthur and Julia (Runyon) Whitney in Mt. Pleasant where she was raised. She was a live in nanny where she learned to cook quite well. She worked in a movie theater and loved that popcorn. She met her late husband, of 58 years, Lester A. Howard on a blind date. On June 25, 1949 Betty married Lester- it is said because he had a motorcycle. Betty and Lester made their home in Remus where they raised 6 children. Betty worked with Lester at the businesses he owned; Howard Ford Tractors in Mt. Pleasant and Howard Dairy Systems in Remus. Betty was active in the community as a den mother and Girl Scout leader. She helped with 4-H, the Wheatland ticket sales and a number of other things- there was so much more. Betty loved old movies, enjoyed snowmobiling with Lester, going to the family cabin in the U.P., playing games, picnicking, a good book, knitting, crocheting and needlepoint. Storytelling was a hobby and there was plenty to tell. When their kids were old enough Lester bought a new motorcycle and the two of them often traveled. Betty's personality and great sense of humor touched the hearts of those whom she encountered. She is the last of her generation and lived a life goal of making it to age 81. She is survived by six loving children who are left with great memories: Bryan (Priscilla), Paula (Mike Brecht), Jim, Don (Sherry), Louann and Doris (Sue Fewless) Howard; six grandchildren, Tom, Anna, Angela, Jay, Jimelle and Jesse; several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, siblings and her beloved husband Lester on April 14, 2008. The family will greet friends at the Daggett Funeral Home in Barryton, on Saturday, December 11, 2010 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. concluding with services at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers it is requested that memorial donations in Betty's name be made to the Jenine Stickler Memorial Fund Mecosta County Community Foundation or the Isabella Co. Commission on Aging- 2200 S. Lincoln Rd., Mt. Pleasant, Michigan 48858.