Betty Podesta

Betty Lou Podesta (née Phillips), born November 11, 1928 in Wood River, Illinois passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025, in South Lyon, Michigan. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and sense of humor that will be cherished by all who knew her. The beloved daughter of Hilda and William A. Phillips, moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1946 and she graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1947. There she met her future husband, John W. Podesta, Jr. and they married on March 24, 1951. He preceded her in death in 2011. Betty graduated from Cleary Business College and pursued a career as an executive secretary until she had children. Betty raised her three daughters-Diane Carson (Doug) of Cape Canaveral, Florida; Susan Podesta (deceased, 1989); and Lizabeth Grove (Marvin) of Big Rapids, Michigan. She is also survived by three grandchildren----Ryan Piel (Layla), Brian Grove (Kiowa), and Stacia Mahone (Ocie); and also, three great grandchildren Brielle and Jocelyn Grove, and Jaden Mahone. Betty was a true social butterfly amazing everyone at how much she could talk, but she loved being around her family and friends. She loved playing tennis, socializing and dancing on the ceiling doing the jitterbug. She loved to laugh and try to make others laugh. Her positive attitude contributed to her strength in surviving some severe trials and also contributing to her longevity. Her wish was to be cremated and no services. Bye Mom for now, we love you. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Betty, please visit our Tree Store.