Bettilee Kay Obituary

KAY, Bettilee Belcher, age 70, of Richmond, VA, passed away on October 17, 2023. She was born on September 22, 1953, in Bluefield, WV, to the late Maxine Rouse Belcher and Robert Edward Belcher. She was the middle child of three girls. Bettilee was a loving wife to William Jackson Kay for 43 years, a devoted mother to her two children, Emily Kay Fratantaro and Robert Wells Kay, and a cherished sister to Kathy Belcher Snider. She was preceded in death by her sister, Marla Belcher Creasy.

Bettilee was a remarkable individual known for her outgoing and caring nature. She had a deep love for people and always sought to help others in need. Her passion for cooking was evident as she delighted in discovering new recipes and preparing delicious meals for her family and later for herself & husband, Jack. She had a keen eye for interior decorating and enjoyed remodeling houses alongside Jack. Bettilee also had a great love for flowers, particularly hydrangeas, and appreciated art and music. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel extensively, including multiple trips to Europe with her children during their high school years and later with her friends. Italy held a special place in her heart, and she often dreamed of living there. St. Maarten was her cherished escape, where she and Jack savored the beautiful Caribbean beaches and indulged in exquisite culinary experiences.

Bettilee will be remembered as a wonderful mother, mentor, and friend. Her presence brought joy and warmth to the lives of her children, Rob and Emily, who now mourn her loss. She was a loving partner to her husband, Jack, whom she met in 1976 when she moved to Richmond. They shared a deep bond and supported each other through life's challenges, trials, and joys. Sadly, Bettilee's life was cut short by Mesothelioma cancer, a battle she fought bravely and without fault.

Bettilee's professional journey was marked by her commitment to supporting her family and being nearby for her children. She worked as finance administrator at Liberty Middle School before her retirement. Even in her later years, she continued to work part-time in retail sales, driven by her love for helping people, making new friends, and staying active. She also assisted many friends and Jack with her interior decorating skills and talents for the many projects and real estate they owned.

Bettilee and Jack joined St. James the Less Episcopal Church in Ashland, VA in 1984. They and their children remained active members until their move from Ashland in 2012. As Bettilee faced her battle with cancer, she found solace and support in her many friends, her family, and her relationship with God.

Memorial services to celebrate Bettilee's life will be held at St. James the Less Episcopal Church, 125 Beverly Rd., Ashland, VA. Nov 18th at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society. Together we can beat this dreadful disease.

Bettilee Kay's presence will be deeply missed by her loved ones, including her husband, children, grandson Jackson Robert Fratantaro, and extended family members. Her love for life, her kindness, and her dedication to her family and friends will forever be cherished. May she rest in peace.