Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

About

Oberlin College

FUNERAL HOME

Wendell P. Holmes Funeral

2719 West Edgewood Ave

Jacksonville, Florida

MaVynee Betsch Obituary

BETSCH MaVynee Betsch (christened Marvyne Elisabeth Betsch) and known as “The Beach Lady”, was born on January 13, 1935, in Jacksonville, Florida. She made her transition from her home on American Beach on the morning of Sept. 5, 2005. The daughter of John Thomas Betsch, Sr. and Mary Frances Lewis Betsch, Ms. Betsch was strongly influenced by her great-grandfather A.L. Lewis whose legacy she protected and advanced for 30 years. A.L. Lewis, one of seven founders of the Afro-American Life Insurance Co., was a major businessman, civic leader and philanthropist. The insurance company that he founded, the Afro-American, was the first insurance company in the state of Florida, and he became Jacksonville, Florida's first black millionaire. MaVynee attended public schools in Jacksonville and Washington, D. C., and a private Methodist, all girls middle and high school, Boylan Haven School in Jacksonville. She graduated in 1955 with a double major in voice and piano from the Conservatory at Oberlin College. Ms. Betsch went to Europe following her graduation where she studied voice and sang lead roles in German State Opera. In 1962, she returned to Jacksonville and began to both study and promote conservation and protection of the environment. She moved to American Beach, a place that her great-grand father A.L. Lewis in 1935 took leadership in purchasing for the “recreation and relaxation without humiliation” of African Americans during the era of segregation. MaVynee Betsch, known as the unofficial historian of American Beach, directed much of her passionate advocacy of the environment to the preservation of her beloved beach. Up until several weeks before her transition, she enthusiastically carried out “Black history tours with “The Beach Lady”. As a founder of the A.L. Lewis Historical Society, she and her allies lobbied to place American Beach on the national register of historical places; to make Nana, the 60 foot sand dune on the beach, the property of the national park service; to protect an old bridge as a fishing pier; and to provide a buffer of intact land between American Beach and development to the north. She was also a force behind countless other environmentalist causes. One of the endangered right whales, “whale 1151” named MaVynee by biologist who came to Amelia Island in the 1990's, is a whale known as a particularly rambunctious female. MaVynne Betsch, “the Beach Lady”, is an icon among environmentalists and a shero to all who know and love American Beach. The story of her life and work, is the centerpiece of a book by Russ Rymer, “American Beach: a saga of race and memory”. Articles chronicaling her deep convictions, extraordinary courage, razor sharp intelligence and impish wit are in numerous publications including New York Times; USA Today; Essence; Preservation, the magazine of the National Trust for Historic Preservation; and Sierra, (the magazine of the Sierra Club); Coastal Living; Southern Living. The Beach Lady has also been featured on CBS and CNN. The Beach Lady's work will be carried on by her two siblings, sister, Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole, president of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.; brother, John Thomas Betsch, Jr., a musician of Paris, France,; an adopted sister, Mildred O. Tucker of Greensboro, N.C.; niece, Peri Frances Betsch of Atlanta, Ga., three nephews, David K.B. Cole (wife, Janet, daughter Marissa Kritikson) Tampa, Fla.; Aaron A. Cole, of Richmond, Va.; and Ethan Che Cole (wife Dr. Jennifer Rivers Cole) of Boston, Mass., and her spiritual daughter Carol J. Alexander and her three sons Garrett, Gibran, and Akeem; other family members and her countless friends and allies. At her request, the body of the Beach Lady will be cremated. Her indomiatble spirit, phenominal life and work will be celebrated at a public gathering on American Beach at a later date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, her family request that donations be sent to the A.L. Lewis Historical Society. Arrangements are under the direction of WENDELL HOLMES FUNERAL DIRECTORS, INC. 2719 W. Edgewood Avenue. Wendell P. Holmes, FDIC. Please Sign the Guestbook @ Jacksonville.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Florida Times-Union from Sep. 7 to Sep. 8, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for MaVynee Betsch

63 Entries

Austin Malik Furqaan

August 5, 2023

When We Met On The BeachI Was Between The Ages 4-7... Way Too Young To Understand You Mama May, Thank You For Your Service To Humanity, Science And Mathematics. You Were The Embodiment Of Oschun FASHO - THE One Love,

Malik, Curator @ A.L.Lewis Museum

deb garner

September 1, 2020

I have so many beautiful memories of Mavynne. I can still hear her distinctive voice ...it makes me smile.

Linda Fletcher

October 5, 2006

In Loving Memory of Our Eco-Warrior, MaVynee Oshun Betsch - the Beach Lady of American Beach, Florida

While surfing the Internet recently I found out about the passing of beloved MaVynee Oshun Betsch on September 5, 2005. I am still in a strange state of mind emotionally; the feeling that one gets when someone passes. The element of surprise, grief and weightiness that one feels with the loss of someone dear that engulfs ones’ feelings and reality. When one must come to the realization that someone special is no longer with us as before. My mind became full of thoughts and memories – like a cascaded stream of fond memories.
I met the Beach Lady when I was working on an environmental website for Belize River Valley in Belize, Central America in 2000. I sent out emails to different African American listserv email groups online seeking information about how I could get in touch with and network with African Americans involved with environmental issues and concerns. I got an email from a woman that told me about Ms. Betsch. I gave her my snail address and she sent me some literature and Ms. Betsch’s address. I searched the Internet and became absolutely fascinated with the scope of Ms. Betsch’s work and commitment. The Beach Lady did not have a telephone at the time. We wrote letters and when she did get a telephone she called me and gave me her telephone number. To hear her voice was like serene magic. Her thoughts and voice tone felt so familiar to me like I had known her all my life. When she spoke her voice was like a mellow stream of thoughts of flowing consciousness, flowing out of her mouth with a presence and an embodiment of reality. It was like talking to a big sister or an aunt with ancient and current wisdom. We talked about environmental issues and her work to save not only American Beach and Florida but also the ecological problems of the world. I was so excited to meet someone like her, so active and embodied in the struggle for the Earth. Every telephone conversation with her was so special and full of insight and passionate concern for the world and its future.
I met the Beach Lady in 2002 at a Kingley Plantation Heritage Celebration on Ft. George Island in Florida. Lamont Muhammad a journalist came with me. It is an experience that we both cherish and think about periodically. The experience is ingrained and stored as one of my fondest memories and experiences. Not only did I get to meet Ms. Betsch, but I got to meet her friends, community. She taught me about the history of American Beach on Amelia Island in Florida which is one of America’s sea islands in the Atlantic Ocean. The Beach Lady as she is so fondly called was so connected to the environment and it was so such a part of her very existence. It was as though she was a part of the tide as it would come ashore. She was in sync with the sea turtles and the sun gleaming on the Atlantic Ocean. It was as though her thoughts could ride the waves to where we came from in Africa.
While on American Beach I got to meet Nana the famous sand dune that the Beach Lady loved dearly and fought endearingly to save like the passion that a mother has to save her child. I can remember her saying “I cannot let Nana be destroyed. She is so precious, and future generations need to know what a sand dune is”. She honored, had reverence and felt a kindred spirit with every palm tree, shrub, tree, shell and speck of sand that would wash upon the beach. Her voice was like a song that would resonate upon the ocean wave. She was like a living opera, a song, and was as flighty as an orange and black colored butterfly. She was deeply rich and blessed by her beauty and love for the natural environment that she embraced dearly. Her appearance was multi-textured with hues and shades of blue, orange, pink and green. She wore a black laced scarf that accented her 7 foot grey locked hair that had a crested like shape at the top of her head forming the shape of Africa. From her hair to her toes she was full of life and vibrancy. In her hair she wore buttons and objects that symbolically had messages and lessons that were all in the sharing spirit of MaVynee. Looking at the Beach Lady was like looking at an Egyptian female pharaoh of old and new with an earthly dynastic vibrancy full of life to the brim and flowing outward with love and compassion. She adapted to the earth and adopted the deep causes to save this planet that she adored and loved.

Betty Holmes-Dyer

October 4, 2006

Boylan Haven class of 1958! My prayers are with the family.

Vivian Lee

October 4, 2006

Just reading of Ms. Betsch's death as a consequence of the Crisis Magazind article on Dr. J. Cole. My sympathies are with you.

Carmen Rae Noble Brown

June 21, 2006

How blessed my children and I are to have met her while visiting American Beach some years ago. As a transplanted "Jacksonvilletonian" she and her family have been a part of my family history as I am the great grand neice of William and Jerusha Lee(Uncle Billy was one of the first executives of the Afro-American Insurance Co). She will be missed

Lavern Ellis

May 21, 2006

I didn't even know that "The Beach Lady" had died. I went to American Beach once with my parents to meet her, but couldn't find her. It was always my hope to return and meet her one day. It brings great sadness to my heart that I didn't get a chance to meet such a remarkable woman. God bless and be with thee MaVynee. I know that your Spirit lives on. What a life you lived!!!

Nancy Demers

March 18, 2006

Coming south from Massachusets and New Hampshire only a few years ago, I had never heard of this wonderous, spirit-filled woman before my son-in-law gave me the book American Beach. What a loss for me that I never had the opportunity to meet Ms. Betsch in person. My condolences to her family.

With sincere sympathy,

Joan Martin Paula Kersch

February 21, 2006

One of the greatest ladies to ever inhabit the planet......we will miss you greatly.

sheryle powell

February 18, 2006

Dr. Cole, I offer up my prayers for you and your family in the loss of your beloved sister, MaVynee. It has been of late that I actually read and learned of her tremendous contributions to American Black History and the preservation of the same.

You are a blessing to many and I pray the Lord's blessings upon you.

Sheryle Powell (Key Club Queen)

Peter Corbin

December 5, 2005

There comes a time in the lives of warrior when, despite their plans to continue their honored pursuits, they lay down the flesh so the spirit can sour & accomplish the cause that is hampered by the limits of the human body. Those who have fought noble causes leave behind a legacy both public and private. In the performance of their acts they are conviced by their concious of the motives. Achievments of self motive; even if some self gain or recognition is returned, are never successful if the passion that drives them is not guinine.

American Beach residents and many Islanders and Leaders know me only as the Advocate of Labor Equality who Headed the Union Organizing Campaine on behalf of the Hourly Wage Earners of Amelia Island Plantation. In 1994 I was introduced by Linda Richo to The Honorable Lady Mavynne Betsch, Notable Receipient of a Congressinal Metal of Honor, recognizing her for her successful and committed efforts to save the enviornment and her successful and self-financed effort that saved NANA, not only for her enjoyment, but by ACT OF CONGRESS, for generations to come, and the property of American Beach that was generously Donated by AIP.

The intensity of the battle to save the community is preserved in the notes and News Articals and Professional Publication that cannot be counted. My file on American Beach is 6 inches thick of clippings, letters from the grand Lady, and personal notes of privacy. We did not conspire against AIP; for my Cause was Labor Fair Standards to those who worked the Manual Labor Jobs; those who were not capable or encouraged, who did not know they were welcome to voice their feeling of abusive condition to the managment. Mayveen and I became freinds in our common traits; We only knew one person who took a bold and pubic stand to accomplish a purpose that was met with undue tactics that were expensive and misleading acts to win battles against two people that were not an enemy; who in the end was "given" that which they requested. She was t he ONE that I knew; and I was the ONE that she knew; in respect to AIP.

American Beach was given to the American Historic Preservation Society by the Famed Resort, who received much public praise by those who knew little of the history that precuded the "gift."

Only to Mavynne Did I ever admit that my hope, in aligning with the Hotel Unionizing Organization that Serves Disney Employees, was to gain the Attention of AIP management to put in place an internal guarantee that those less advantaged would not be overlooked in the future. Expert attorney were brought in after weeks of intimidation; in an environment where my friends were fearful to be seen with me; and my supervisors who had always applauded me, ultimately provoke my filing of 29 federal violations against AIP. They were found guilty of each offense; they did not want a UNION of external parties to gain a controling investment in the labor relations rights. Only Mavynne knew that I never collected ONE signature from any employee and did not ask. AIP made the decision to establish an internal committee to represent all employees fairly. This was acceptable. AIP upon the finding of guilt of 29 violations; all unnecessary, "gave" compensation and damages to employees who were damaged by their perceived threat to the independance of the company and took hostile and conspired acts; ugly word from "beautiful people" were written but the NewsPaper in Fernandina Beach did not buy and sell the truth. We were represented fairly. We were attacked by some vested employees who never associated with the "15 year employees who had never been offered benefits; never been secure in teir positions; and never received due and fair raises. I admit, it was mostly oversight; but my Business Administration degree of knowledge includes that in an organization of that size, there are usual and standard procedures to insure that employee relations are befeficial to the less capable; and descrimination, with or without intent is no difference than if it were based on disability; for the disability lay in the lack of opportunity; the the presence of need if supervision were trained and conserned.

American Beach was surrounded by bulldozers when Mavynne last called me to Florida. I have been their since. Her battle was lengthy, but filled with some of the most grand life's experiences that can be had by those who do not desert thier convictions.

The AIP UNION CAMPAINE was not a threat to them at all, I never believed that outside intervention would help; but on the contray destroy. AIP, as in the case of American BEACH, GAVE the employees what would assure them of their vested interested and in so doing, They won the allegience of employees who had never given up hope; but who were convinced of their own lack of value for the lack of recognition.

AIP, when the rubber hits the road, cannot be condemded for Corporate Opinions; ultimately leading to the right decision. They have won the battle and elevated themselves in nobility to a world of VIP's of many I knew. They were t he ones who encouraged me; and who encouraged Mavynne, and sent messages back and forth between us; yes; even those property owners whose convictions were not dismissed by blind prejudices or presumed immunity to err.

Mayvnne and I talked every 4 to 6 weeks and she had asked that I tour with her for her "grand finale'" on a Motor Home. Her notes give evidence of a Message that she wanted to share with the ears that were already in tune with her voice. She had been given a generous donation to Purchase a Motor Home and travel to pinpoint destinations. The first destination agreed upon was Selma Alabama; our brief discussions; and her notes and letters give light to the context of her message. In accordance to divine wisdom, it would be imprudent to disclose that here without cousel of those other vested parties who knew her passions.

I am committed to make that messsage, as I understand it; available only in the notation formats and in the conversational elements. Selma Alabama gives some insight into her furtherance of a dream once reavealed. It was there we were to plan our first stop. Mavynne left a legacy of truth and in that truth, is the deeper understanding of what is more than a dream; yet less than realization. Doubtless, her departure, of which she foretold, was early; ... remember her with the hope that I can understand why she asked me to accompany her. "One decision was made; that was to mix the two voices so that the message would be plain." My message is stifled as I hope for the return of my insight at the times that we agreed specifically upon our "spiritual understanding of the effect that need to follow the work." Let the Butterflys carry the message across the land; let NaNa Sing songs of her Maiden to the Wind; Let hope not perish and history die in vain; but let vision return to the land for your fathers; and the Continent of Her Commitments; and let Brazil rejoice in the knowlege that she was the homeland of the Heart of Lady who Was Known by the Name of Her Work and her abode. Her butterfuly "travel" took her often to Brazil. The American Beach Lady will sing on the stage again; and her freedom to travel is restored. Grant that her message will go out; and those who have insight please respond.

Peter Corbin

Friend and Confidant

of American Beach & the Island

and her People.

"Faith is shown by Works."

"Wisdom is known by her children."

All welcome to Write; I am Visiting soon and in the warmth of the Spring, I will talk to those who

receive me.

Allisen Jones

November 8, 2005

I met Ms. Betsch when I was a clerk working in the public library downtown Jacksonville which is the Hayden Burns Library. She and I became friends and we would talk about various topics of interest. I found her to be a very smart and intelligent young lady I was always glad to see her when she came into the library. she will be sorely missed. I found out when I went to Florida on 11/06/05

Allisen Jones

FEMI FOLAMI-BROWNE

November 8, 2005

For the " Mother of American Beach" and those who Love...

Sun, sand,

butterflies, flowers, rain, then

again all things natural were fed by your fertile brain. Now returning to the earth, the

origin...to begin again...sun, sand, butterflies, flowers, rain...Mavynee.

Rest peacefully,

until we meet again.

Virginia McPherson Hayes

October 11, 2005

Our condolences to the family during this season of grief and loss.

Christine Laporte

October 5, 2005

My deepest condolences to Mavynne's family and friends. I feel our Beloved Beach Lady Butterfly, every day. Her clear strength and high humor strengthen me, my family.

She is everywhere, woven into all beautiful songs and stories issuing from our planet. She teaches me to be generous, vigilant and brave, to work to protect all that we love deeply. Dreaming, we wake.

The Original American Idol - Mavynee Betsch & The Wedding Diva

Cheryl Mayfield Brown

October 4, 2005

After birth, life is boring unless you're born again....Thanks Mavynee for bringing excitement into my world!! Forever in my heart!

vivien evans

September 27, 2005

Your light will always shine. I thank you for the spiritual journey on the Atlantic Ocean 3 years ago. Rest my angel.Your hair friend! vivien evans

Leah Creque

September 27, 2005

Dr Cole:

You have my deepest sympathy because a sister is such a close and special family connection. I was very proud of your sister, MaVynee, and her commitment to the legacy of American beach. I pray that your memories of her bring you strength and comfort.

Sincerely,

Leah

Dr. Josephine Jackson-Smith

September 21, 2005

Shouldn't the soul arise when a gentle prompting from the source of all strength calls it to flight? --- Jelaluddin Rumi

Dear Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole (Spelman College President at my 50th class reunion) and all the family embraced in the soul of Mavynee Betsch. I met Mavynee as "The Beach Lady" following her acceptance of The Lucy Terry Prince award from The National Black Herstory on March 24, 2000. Her presence was that of a timeless soul, of an eternal soul. The Joy of Our Lord was her strength. I trust now that Joy as your strength.

Dr. Josephine C'46

Mozella Galloway

September 21, 2005

Rest in peace dear sister. May God reward you for a job well done.

Dr. Josephine Jackson-Smith

September 20, 2005

"Shouldn't the soul arise when a gentle prompting from the source of all strength calls it to flight?" -----Jelaluddin Rumi

Dr. Johnetta Cole, my "sister" bestowed by your presidency of Spelman College, your brother and other beloved of and by the soul of MaVynee Betsch. I met "The Beach Lady" March 24, 2000 when she accepted The Lucy Terry Prince Award at the Third Annual Conference and Awards Banquet of The National Black History Task Force, Inc. in Atlanta, Georgia; I knew I was in the presence of a soul that is timeless, that is eternal. The Joy of Our Lord, MaVynee's Joy, is your strength.

Josephine jackson-Smith, C'46

Gail Hoffman

September 20, 2005

I will never forget the first time I heard about MaVynee and later met her on my first trip to Jacksonville to visit my friend Carol some 20 years ago. At first I could not comprehend that someone would give up the comforts of life to live on the beach. Over the years I came to know MaVynee thru Carol and my visits to Jacksonville and learned of her deep commitment to many causes, especially the ocean and It's animals. I can recall a visit to her apartment on the beach and receiving a lesson on the ocean breezes and which direction a person should build a house to get the full benefit of the ocean breezes and sunrises. Spending time with MaVynee was always a lesson in history or just life. My sincere condolences to the family at this time, and to the family at large, we must not let this dear lady's legacy be forgotten. American Beach belongs to us and we must see to it that it remains so.!!!

Toni Hawkins

September 19, 2005

I count meeting the Beach Lady as one of the most special and treasured events in my life. I hope all her dreams for the beach are soon realized and that her spirit that enhanced every life she came in contact with keeps her legacy alive.

Candi Boone

September 13, 2005

The Beach Lady was one of our last true home-grown Florida characters. I wish I had been able to meet her. She will never be forgotten.

Liz Flaisig

September 13, 2005

As a reporter for the last decade, I have met many interesting and wonderful people. I can honestly say that MaVynee will always be the one who reminds me that love, compassion and loyalty for your community and its residents is a significant part of life. I am so thankful for the times I spent with the Beach Lady listening to stories of history and life. I will always think of her, as I think of my dad, as a beautiful butterfly.

Dana

September 13, 2005

I only knew "the Beach Lady" through articles, but I greatly admired her spirit. What a beautiful, beautiful soul who has been such an inspiration to many others! My condolences to the family.

Mavynne getting her nose repierced after stomach surgery

September 11, 2005

Mavynne standing beside a mural painted for her by Miz Thang

September 11, 2005

Photo by James Gaines, submitted by Elaine Billups

September 10, 2005

Junior Cummings

September 10, 2005

A beautiful black butterfly has been laid to rest! Your memories and struggles will not be forgotten.The love and warmth that you've shown to many will be an inspiration to future generation to fight for what you believe in. This was not an easy struggle,but the faith and dedication you have shown will not be forgotten. I can remember when I first came to American Beach and had an opportunity to meet you, You were out picking up paper along the main road leading to the beach. I spoke with you and MaVynee you inspired me to tell other BLACKS that they needed to come and utilize the beach.Your word were spoken firmly and I can still hear your voice saying "This aint nothing but a blessing from God that many BLACK folks don't know about. I am proud to say that it was more than a pleasure to have known you. Now that God has chose to call you home for Sweet rest, I know you will hear his voice saying "Well done thy good and faithful servant. My prayers goes out to your family in time of a great loss, that he would help us to continue fighting for what you believed in. And to Mrs.J Cole, I know you are going to miss your sister the most because you two were so close. But realize that God don't make no mistakes, He realized that she has fought a good fight and she was tired. So he called her home so she can sit back and watch you carry out her dreams. I love the entire family and my prayer are with you and for you. As you continue your struggle know that God is there because he knows you purpose. He will Bless you because he knows the desires of your heart even before you ask them. We all must travel this same road that MaVynee has traveled and when God look at the race that we ran and the fight that we have fought. I pray that I too will hear these same words"Well Done" No more sickness, no more pain,Nothing but sweet rest.......Take Care and take God. He won't lead you wrong.. I really miss you and LOVE you MaVynee

Patricia London

September 9, 2005

Dr. Cole and Family,

I feel that I know the Beach Lady personally. My late husband and two daughters, Jessica and Kelli, and I lived in Jacksonville for four years and read and listened to the wonderful efforts that she led. She was a real part of Jacksonville and American Beach. She will not be forgotten. I know that Dr. Cole, President of Bennett College, where my youngest daughter attends, and my oldest is a graduate, will carry on her legacy. God Bless you all. Dr. Cole, may the peace of the Lord be always with you.

Love,

Anne Grimes Crowder

September 9, 2005

Notice of MaVynee's passing has just reached Reg and me here in France. We found the news hard to believe because, I guess, we thought such a wonderful creature would live forever. We are confident the good work she did here on earth will live on and through it, her spirit shall be eternal. I love MaVynee and I deliberately put that sentiment in the present tense because love is eternal and my love and admiration of this beautiful free spirit shall go on forever. I hope her family will be comforted by all the many sincere messages being sent their way.

Ann & Terry Tate

September 9, 2005

To the family of MaVynee Betsch

She was a very extrodinary lady with lots of love. No one will ever be able to replace her deep love and care for humans and nature.

Our deepest sympathy,

Ann & Tery Tate (TTT)

Samuel Bacote

September 9, 2005

To the family of MaVynee Betsch,

I certainly was saddened when I learned of the passing of your dear sister and true American historian, the Beach Lady of American Beach. Her celebrated work and concern for our understanding of her role will be missed but her legacy will never be forgotten. I feel like I know Dr. Cole like a sister and mother. So my heart weeps today momentarily because the strength she taught me carries me over. I pray the same now for her and all of her family and the many friends of the Beach Lady.

nicole jackson

September 9, 2005

In Memory of The Beach Lady...

Descended from A Great African-American Legacy, yet unique, independent, and determined to let future generations remember our great past. Every year the Kuumba Fest would wrap up at American Beach, and there she was, this griot, a living legend, who could have otherwise led a posh life, yet instead made her life at 'our beach' and 'represent'. May she rest with out other heroes who have passed through this life. We'll miss you!

Yvonne Mangram McShay

September 9, 2005

Dr.Cole and Johnny,

Condolences to you and your family. MaVynne's spirit will live as long as we continue to tell her story. And I thank her for giving me permission to do so. She was a beautiful soul.

Darlene Reed-Ricks

September 9, 2005

Sending our Deepest Sympathy, MaVynee will be missed. Love always

William, Arlene and Darlene Reed-Ricks

Julia R. Nowlin

September 8, 2005

My dear friend Mavynne, your presence will be missed terribly but your spirit is forever present, riding thru American Beach I will still always look for you and perhaps spot you out of the corner of my eye, Thank you God for Mavynne

G JEAN PRENTICE-HARRIS

September 8, 2005

TO Miss MaVynee & Family

WE MET AT THE 20TH HOUR IN YOUR WALK ON THIS SIDE.

THO' I HAD HOPED FOR MORE..

WHO KNEW IT WAS ONLY FOR A FLEETING MOMENT I'D BE IN YOUR PRESENCE.

YES, I WANTED MORE..

EXPERIENCING YOUR WARMTH & DEPTH,

ALLOWING YOU TO FLOW OVER ME AND TOUCHING SOMETHING DEEP AS IF A KINDRED SPIRIT WAS PRESENT.

I REALLY WANTED MORE..

AT THE TIME YOU MAY NOT HAVE REALIZED IT, BUT I AM SURE YOU DO NOW. AS YOU HAVE ENTERED NOT AN ENDING, BUT A CROSSING FROM THIS PLANE TO THE NEXT. A JOURNEY WE WILL ALL TAKE, THE COMFORT IS IN KNOWING YOU AND A MANY OTHERS WILL BE THERE TO GUIDE US THRU AS SOME HAS GUIDED YOU. I'VE BEEN BLESSED IN YOUR 20TH HOUR AND I KNOW SOME DAY I WILL GET MORE. TAKE YOUR REST GENTILE SPIRIT. gjph 09-08-05

I send love & light your way. Jean

Rodney Solomon

September 8, 2005

Yes, the strange little fellow and his uncle with the website design business. Ma, ever since I saw you at my school, I've been intrigued, inspired, and involved. My tears are tears of gladness that after being such a leader, a community caretaker, and prominent staple of history, you now can rest in peace with a smile knowing God is pleased. Well done. God Bless you and your family. Be encouraged all! :)

Donna Carr

September 8, 2005

Thanks for all the knowledge you shared with everyone and the joy that you had in doing so. The legacy you left behind will not be forgotten, you were a very unique person and there would never be another one like you. My condolence to the family, and when you think of MaVynee remember all the lives she has inspired and the joy she found in living. May God bless you in such a time like this.

Deloris Philyaw Brown

September 8, 2005

My condolences to the Family,

I knew MaVynee when we were children,and the last time we met was during The Millenniun Reunion For New Stanton Sr. Hi. American Beach Tour.She will surely be missed and American Beach wiil not be the same without her.

Our Prayers are with the Family,

September 8, 2005

Praying your legacy continues @ the American Beach...

Eddis L. Wilson

Denise S. Mathis

Thomasina Wilson

Vonciel McCoy

September 8, 2005

Morning light, silken dream to flight As the darkness gave way to dawn You've survived, now your moment has arrived Now your dream has finally been born
Black Butterfly, sailed across the waters tell your sons and daughters what the struggle brings
Black Butterfly, set the skies on fire rise up even higher
so the ageless winds of time can catch your wings...

Thank you Beach Lady for your wonderful and beautiful legacy.

My Condolences to the Family.
D. Vonciel McCoy

L. Kirkwood

September 8, 2005

Float on great butterfly, I will definitely be seeing you again.

Deloris Suggs-Milton

September 8, 2005

To The Family of MaVynee Betsch,

I was pleased to know such and extrodinary lady. Each time that my children and I visited American Beach she would always take time to give us some Historical information about American Beach. My children nor I will ever forget her kindness to us.

Sincerely,

Deloris Milton

Z McNeil

September 8, 2005

You will be missed

Sam & Pat Barkley

September 8, 2005

Mavynee will surely be missed. If you have never took one of her Jacksonville African American tour, you really missed a good opportunity. She was one of the sweetnest yet rawest person I ever met. No one will ever be able to replace her.

Lloyd N. Pearson, Jr.

September 8, 2005

To the family of:

MaVynee Betch

Dear Friend (s),

You have my deepest sympathy during your hour of bereavement. May God's love be close to bless and comfort you throughout these saddened days.

Sincerely yours

Lloyd N. Pearson, Jr., Elder

Woodlawn Presbyterian Church USA

Executive Brd., NAACP

Dorothy Jones

September 8, 2005

I was introduced to MaVynee by my cousin Rudolph Williams. American Beach has lost another one of it's legends, and she and Rudy are looking down on American Beach right now. MaVynee will be missed by everyone that ever met and knew her. To the Betsch family - weeping may endure for the night but joy comes in the morning. The question is how long is the night? God bless you all and may He give you comfort at this time of sorrow.

Deloris Suggs-Milton

September 8, 2005

To the Betsch Family,

I have never met such an extrodinary individual as the 'Beach Lady'. Each summer that my children and I visited American Beach she was always gracious in givng us a tour or walking on the beach with us or giving us brochures or historical material. She will truly be missed by many.

Sincerely,

Deloris Milton, Jarryd and Brittany

larry bussey

September 8, 2005

I will never forget you.there are many who talk about doing things but you were a mover and a shaker may God bless you for all the hard work you have done for american beach.long live NANA..!!!!!!!

Lauri deGaris

September 7, 2005

To the Betsch Family:

My deepest sympathy goes out to your family. Mavynee was greatness. She was the most spiritual, caring, influential person I have ever known. I loved having Mavynee join me on tour over these past few years. Everyone who had the honor of meeting her walked away with the feeling they had just met someone very special, they had met greatness!

I know Mavynee is floating over the beach in song and tasting the sweet nectar of the dunes blossoms on Nana. I will miss her very much. She changed my life forever, she has changed many lives forever.

janice copeland

September 7, 2005

"your sun shall no longer go down,nor shall your moon withdraw itself;for the Lord will be your everlasting light,and the days of your mourning-shall be ended" Isaiah 60:20

Shauna Huddleston

September 7, 2005

To the Betsch Family;

I didn't have the pleasure of knowing Ms. Betsch (Madame Butterfly to me) for very long, but in the short time I did know her, I fell in love with her inner beauty, spunk and love of life. She will be greatly missed~ I know she is smiling down on all of us now, as she has finally evolved into the beautiful butterfly she spoke of.

In loving memory,

Shauna Huddleston

(Complementary Care Center)

miz thang

September 7, 2005

mavynne-i know that you are now a butterfly flying around american beach...you are my shero..i miss you terribly and love you so much....i am planting a butterfly garden for you....miz thang

Joan & Dan Singleton

September 7, 2005

Mavynee we will miss you, we love you and wish you great peace.

C M

September 7, 2005

Your beautiful presence will be missed on American Beach! You have done so much for good in your lifetime.

Virginia Mealing

September 7, 2005

Mavynne, we love you and will miss you. You have been a blessing to our family for many years with many good times. Our children and gradchildren will honor your legacy for all times.

My deepest sympathies are extended to Dr. Johnetta Cole, Carol Alexander and close family and friends. We continue to bless and pray for you all for sharing Mavynee with us.

"These things I have spoken unto you,

That in Me you may have peace.

In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer,

I have overcome the world."

John 16:33

Marva Hilliard

September 7, 2005

To Dr. Cole and the Betsch Family:

I pray that you find strength during these difficult times. I know that American Beach would not be what it is, had it not been for the "beach lady". I will NEVER forget her presence, her love, her tenacity, her perserverance, her passion and her strength.

Know that earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.

George T. Stewart III

September 7, 2005

Mavynee. You touched the lives of many and you will be surely missed by all who crossed your path in life.

You made a difference and made us care.

God Bless You and Say "Hello" to Nana for me.

Showing 1 - 63 of 63 results