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Betty GREENWOOD Obituary
News Death Notice
GREENWOOD, Betty Carolyn (nee McGriff) age 91, passed away April 12 at her Kettering home, following a recent bout of illnesses and hospitalizations. She was preceded in death by both her children, Michael L. Greenwood and Glenn D. Greenwood; her brother, Amos "Mack" McGriff, Jr. She is survived by her four grandchildren, Jacqueline Greenwood of Huber Heights, Gina M. Greenwood and Todd M. Greenwood, both of Chewelah, Washington; Joseph A. Gibbs of Hesperia, California; great-grandson Forest Govedare of Chelewah, Washington; a niece, Carolyn A. (nee McGriff) Terrill (Michael S.); a nephew, Daniel McGriff of Dayton; a nephew Steve McGriff, of Dayton, Ohio; her longtime singer & caregiver, Susie McLaughlin; grand-nephew Robert S. "Slash" Terrill (Amber Everett); great-grand-niece, Kora "Slash3" Terrill, all of Dayton; two second cousins, First Assembly of God's Pastor Buddy Rose of St. Paris, Ohio; and Dr. CheeChee Rose of Middletown, Ohio. This list also includes dozens of devoted friends, literally hundreds of adoring fans, and she will be so missed by her devoted Shih-Tzu, Mimi, who was constantly at her side, even to the end. Born to Amos and Myrtle (nee Savage) McGriff on July 15, 1922, Betty was a Dayton devotee and resident for her entire life, but for a very brief interval when she went to Florida. She loved Dayton, Ohio, and it loved her. At an early age, she honed her musical skills with the organ and piano, a talent she parlayed into her livelihood. She began her entertainment career at Paul's Cafe, in 1954. She also worked at The Tropics and Brown Derby. She rose to unmatched heights of success and local fame in the entertainment industry during the late 1950s and throughout the 1970s, owning and operating the locally-famous Cascades Nightclub on Salem Avenue, beginning in 1959. She closed it in 1974, but continued entertaining, almost to her very last days. She had, in fact, played the piano in her home, one week before she died. She recently organized a new musical group for local shows, several of which she had done just 8 weeks prior to her death. She remained a local icon, known widely as "The First Lady of Dayton" and was recognized and approached nearly everywhere she went. She hosted many celebrities, both privately and professionally, over the years. A devoted Christian, Betty regularly attended Bible Study at the ministry she co-founded, Active Angels. A gathering of friends will be held from 4 to 7 pm, Monday, April 21, 2014 at TOBIAS FUNERAL HOME-FAR HILLS CHAPEL, 5471 Far Hills Avenue at Rahn Road, followed by a Memorial service at 7 pm. At Betty's request, in lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to Active Angels, 3225 Southdale Drive, Unit 12, Kettering, Ohio 45409-1131. Online condolences may be sent to www.tobiasfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Betty GREENWOOD
Thomas Syring
July 26, 2020
I‘m so sorry to hear about this. All my thoughts are wir Betty.
Betty was a Cousine of my grandpa ... she visit us in the 80’s in Germany. It will be lovely to hear from here Family and to share some
Memories!
Connie Miles
July 20, 2016
I knew Betty in Florida when she had a lovely condo on Treasure Island and performed at the Thunderbird out on the beach. I worked for Betty for a number of years. She never treated me like an employee. I grew to love her as a dear friend. One day she looked at me and told me she thought I was too good to be working as I was and she offered to pay my way through real estate school and pay for my books and all! It was a few years later when I took her advice and attended real estate classes with my best friend. My husband paid for the course. Betty visited us in our home one or two times a year and I cried with her when she lost her dear mother. we remained friends right up until her passing. I loved her and will always remember her wonderful smile and spirit "we may not be here a long time, but we are here for a good time."~ Betty Greenwood and a good time she had. She shared with me concerning her brother and her husband. There were some hard times in her life but she smiled and worked hard to raise herself up above it all! Betty, where ever you are, I love you. Keep them laughing. Until we meet again. --Connie Kobulik Miles
August 20, 2014
I was hoping to at least talk with her one more time. She was always so sweet and kind to me. Vera Hoffman and Betty both helped me through some rough times. Good by dear lady, 'til we meet again in that beautiful place beyond the veil.
My precious life long Friend! Keep the light on ,we will see you soon!! Love you
Jo Ann Thatcher
May 17, 2014
May 15, 2014
I had the privilege of knowing Betty when my real estate partner, Gabriele Heinz, and I had her condo in Oakcreek Mano listed.. How wonderful it was to be invited into her world! Her talent and irreverence were the best. It was truly a blessing to know her. Linda Coalson
Llinda Lee Toney-Schidecker
May 14, 2014
i can not believe that Betty Greenwood, is now gone. She was allways such an Icon of Dayton for many years. I have many lovely memories of the shows, @ the Cascades, & other places that She played at in Dayton. She was truly a "Class Act" that will never be forgotten. Rest in Heavenly peace, Betty, We All Loved You immensely. Linda Lee Toney-Schidecker
May 14, 2014
Betty Greenwood was one of a kind...the best kind. I will never forget what she said to me when I shared that I was pregnant one night at the Cascades, forty-one years ago. She said,"Honey, having a baby is like ...", well, let's just say that she was absolutely right. So much fun, such a big talent, and such a big, big heart! May her family relish their memories as shall so many of us who had the pleasure of her acquaintance.
May 10, 2014
May the family of Betty Greenwood find comfort by drawing close to God through prayer. James 4:8
May 8, 2014
To the family of Betty Greenwood:
May the God of peace grant you comfort during the mourning
of the loss of your dead loved one.
Malcolm MacLeod
May 8, 2014
Loved Betty & Big Red. Spent many nights at the Cascades. Betty was a true Dayton icon.
Mary Lou Devers
May 6, 2014
Thanks for the memories, Betty.
Entertain them in Heaven.
wilma howrton
April 30, 2014
didn't know betty on a personal level, but heard her make the piano talk several . mention betty coming coming to dominics and it was like the queen was coming to domincs I can just see sonny and little chuck God bless the family you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
T Hines
April 28, 2014
May God be your strength in this time of sorrow Matthew 5:4 "Happy are those who mourn since they will be comforted."
Jill Hamilton & Alan Thompson
April 24, 2014
Dear Susie, family and friends of Betty - We were so sad to hear of Betty's passing. What a legend she was! It was a joy to be in her audiences over the years. Our condolences to all who knew and loved her.
Buddy Mantia
April 23, 2014
Betty was the first person who let get up to sing with her at Paul's Cafe when I was in high school.She was always kind and encouraging to young talent.A true lady of class,talent and energy.I have always remembered her upon seeing me at Paul's and saying "Get up here and sing with me,Buddy."What a loss of a lovely human being.She will be in my prayers. Buddy Mantia
Marjorie Roehm
April 23, 2014
My condolences to the family from a high school chum & life long friend. You will be greatly missed. Marge Riesinger Roehm
Lenny Davis
April 21, 2014
Betty and I met and worked together about 55 years ago when she was performing at John"C's" Brown Derby. Then I had the privilege of working with her for three years at the Cascades. She was clever with the patter and knew how to keep a crowd entertained and wanting more. The list of singers she Mentored is endless and she will not be forgotten for her kindness to the many handicapped organizations she helped during her entertainment years. Through the years we have remained friends and I will never forget her. My love to Betty, her family and many friends. There will certainly be a hole in out lives over the loss of Betty Greenwood.
April 20, 2014
Never knew you personally, however, when coming to the Cascades and/or Tropics enjoyed your shows. You were pleasant during our brief conversation and of course, your smiles and laughs made them interesting...giggles.
You were some were some kind of "dame", Lady Betty!!.
Sing "raaght purrrrty fer tha' Laud and Jesus, ya' heah!!" Let the Angels sing with you or do "back up" with their harps...giggles.
From a person and customer who enjoyed your performances. Thanks!!
April 19, 2014
Betty Greenwood, someone I never knew prior to January of 2005 yet someone I will never forget for her generosity and giving heart and spirit. When help was needed, you answered the call. Rest in Peace, Betty.You've paid it forward for so many of us. Sincerely, Michael Raiff
April 19, 2014
R.I.P. Betty you will be missed , Love and Peace. Goodnight. ~Lynne Boothe
Janet Wilson
April 17, 2014
Betty was the true definition of good and kind. Her love of the Lord was evident in her generosity to others. In return, we were all gifted with her tremendous talent. Betty, you will surely be missed! Peace, comfort and prayers to her loved ones as she flies with the angels.
Mary F
April 17, 2014
One Classy Lady !!! Great sense of Humor and pleasant to all, even the lowly receptionist at her Accountants office. Never looked down on people!! If only some of the so called 'big shots' would learn from Betty!! She was the BEST !!!
Ginny Lee
April 17, 2014
She was my friend for 42 years and a mother in law.
JERRIE TURPIN
April 17, 2014
Betty use to live across the street from my mother(Ruth) on Foxdale Dr. She was so funny and sweet. Love and Prayers Betty. Jerrie and Ruth
Angie Wilson
April 17, 2014
I will miss you so much! I am honored to have performed with Betty and Susie over the years. Thank you Betty Greenwood for believing in me and giving me the chance not only to make music with you, but for being a wonderful inspiration to all who knew you. Music in Dayton will never be the same. I will always remember your positive outlook, love for the Lord, and of course your love of music. My prayers and thoughts are with you Susie and Jackie.
April 17, 2014
SHE WAS A FANTASTIC LADY, AND WILL BE GREATLY MISSED. I HAD MANY GOOD TIMES AT HER PIANO BAR, THRU THE YEARS.. I AM SURE SHE IS IN A MUH BETTER PLACE. PAUL PLUNKET
Susie Lynn & Betty
Karen Powell
April 16, 2014
Betty was an "amazing woman", Mother, singer, entertainer and friend. I got to know her from a very dear friend, Lynn Fields. What a Beautiful person she was. I enjoyed every moment I got to spend with her...especially my "personal Birthday party at my home". Susie was the best thing that ever came into Betty life...I am greatful that had time with both of them. Blessings go out to the entire Family and Friends ....she will never be forgotten in Dayton Ohio!!
Betty and Dorothy Teague Walker
Linda Howard
April 16, 2014
Betty went to school with my aunt and was a life long friend of my mother, Dorothy Teague Walker. We went to see Betty and Big Red at the Cascades many, many times and never left without a smile on our face. She was a wonderful human being and gave her fans time away from their cares and woes plus an abundance of laughter. I will really miss her, and I pray for her family to find comfort in the many fans she leaves behind to carry her memory forward.
Ron Rookstool
April 16, 2014
My deepest sympathy to Betty's family and friends. What a talented and beautiful lady who will be missed.
Garry Finton
April 16, 2014
Betty was such a inspiration to all who knew her. She could out perform even at 91 most people half her age. She was truly and artist and loved to perform. Betty always put her heart & soul into each show and the audience was never dissapointed. She was the best and will be missed by all of us who ever had the priviledge to really know the one and only BETTY GREENWOOD!!!!!!!!
Lyn Meyer
April 15, 2014
Betty my mom always said you are a one of a kind person and as you also know mom is always right! I still have the hand blown glass clown you gave me 32 years ago when my son was born and still think of you all the time when I walk by it, thanks for the memories Betty! You will forever be missed. Aleta, Carla,Joey ,Lyn & Sheila
JO ANN THATCHER
April 15, 2014
RIP MY DEAR FRIEND, FOR FIFTY YEARS, YOU HAVE BEEN MY HERO. MOST PEOPLE KNOW THE "WONDERFUL & FABULOUS INTERTAINER BETTY" I KNEW THE BEAUTIFUL, WONDERFUL,SINSITIVE,LOVING,GIVING, SPIRITUAL BETTY,THAT FROM A VERY YOUNG WOMAN ,I WANTED TO BE LIKE WHEN I GREW UP! BETTY HAD MORE CLASS THAN ANYONE I EVER MET, EVEN WITH HER SHADY LITTLE JOKES,SHE STILL SHINED LIKE A BEAUTIFUL DIAMOND.SHE WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEART, AND ONE DAY WE WILL HAVE A WONDERFUL REUNION. MY LAST CONVERSATION I HAD WITH BETTY, IHAD THE PRIVELEDGE OF PRAYING FOR HER. SHE LOVED TO TALK TO ME ABOUT JESUS, & I LOVED THAT.! JESUS GIVE HER A HUG FOR ME & TELL HER I LOVE HER!
Herbe Smith
April 15, 2014
Betty, thank you for being genuine. Each of us that had the honor of knowing your personally, were indeed blessed. You played the piano and entertained us, but your life was so much more; an incredible LADY, who loved people and people loved you. We expect to meet again, on the streets of gold. Thank you, dear one.
Brenda and Cary Noble
April 15, 2014
Betty lived by her words "We may not be here for a long time but we are here for a good time." Well, the time certainly has not seemed long enough but we surely did enjoy the GREAT times with Betty. We feel blessed to have had her in our lives and she will live in our hearts forever. She was a very special person and she will be greatly missed.
The Huffman Family
April 15, 2014
Betty was a wonderful part of our family for years. We will always remember the life, love and laughter she shared with us. A beautiful friendship that we shall cherish forever. Our earthly loss is certainly heavens gain.
April 15, 2014
RIP BETTY. You really blazed a trail for so many of us.
Harvey of Harvey and Anita (The Forvm)
Cheri Beddies
April 15, 2014
Thank you for allowing me the priveledge of being a part of some of your wonderful performances Betty. It was an honor that I will treasure. I will never forget the laughter, the music, the friendship.
CHRIS VANWEELDEN
April 15, 2014
ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE I HAVE KNOWN. I AM SO PROUD TO CALL HER MY FRIEND. MAY THE LORD BLESS HER ALWAYS...AND I KNOW SHE IS PLAYING THE PIANO AND LAUGHING AND REJOICING WITH HER FAMILY. LOVE YOU, BETTY...TILL WE MEET AGAIN...CHRIS VANWEELDEN (BIG RED'S DAUGHTER)
June Steck & Maria Ferraro
April 15, 2014
Betty's talent: music, jokes, etc. will be missed by everyone. She touched so many lives. Glad we knew her.
Marsha Marquardt
April 15, 2014
Betty was Queen of Uniqueness. Uniqueness of character. Uniqueness of talent. Uniqueness of story telling. The list could go on for miles. She will be missed, by many, for sure!
April 15, 2014
The joy you have give thousands of people will never be forgotten.
Rick A. Busch
Beavercreek,Ohio
Bonnie Risner Romanczuk
April 15, 2014
Oh,Betty! How sorely I will miss your earthly presence and those late-night, laughing phone calls, of which we shared so many. You were always such a role model and inspiration to me. I know heaven is a much brighter place, but here on earth, it's a shade dimmer without you. Thank you for being you and thank you for your friendship.
Karen Barnett
April 15, 2014
I will miss that beautiful smile and the times we had together. RIP Betty. You will always be in my heart.
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