Obituary published on Legacy.com by Phillips Funeral Home - Corning on Oct. 25, 2025.
Robert M. 'Bob' Betts, age 99 of
Corning, NY joined his beloved Savior and his wife, Valerie of 49 years on Monday, October 14, 2024 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility in Montour Falls.
Born on February 23, 1925 in
Corning, NY, he was the son of the late Paul and Ortha (Mattison) Betts. Bob was a graduate of Corning High School. He married Valerie Knickerbocker on February 14, 1968 in
Corning, NY. She predeceased him on December 29, 2017. He worked as a relief operator for Corning Inc., retiring in 1990 and receiving his 65 year pin.
Bob was a man of strong faith who had a love for the Lord. He was a great musician, playing the accordion and traveling with 'The Musical Betts', which included his family members, to minister to shut-ins and those in nursing homes. During this time, he developed a love of people and sharing his faith with those around him. When he wasn't helping others, he enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Bob is survived by his sons: James (Gina) Betts of Garner, NC, John (Candy) Betts of
Corning, NY, Thomas (Claire Wilshire) Betts of Clayton, NC; grandchildren: Jesse Ballance, Andrea Smith-Betts, John Robert Betts, Mirranda Betts, Aaron Betts, Robert Martin Betts, III and Linda; 2 great grandchildren: siblings: Paul T. (Patricia) Betts of Rock Stream, NY, Layton E. Betts of Painted Post, NY; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and wife, Bob was predeceased by his step-son, Robert Martin Betts, Jr.; and brother, Lester Betts.
Family and friends are invited to visitation on Monday, October 21, 2024 from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Christian Life Baptist Church, 2523 Brown Hollow Rd in Corning. A funeral service will immediately follow at the church at 12:00 pm, Pastor John Armstrong officiating. Burial will take place at the convenience of the family in the family plot in Chapel Knoll Cemetery. Phillips Funeral Home, 17 W. Pulteney St., Corning has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Due to construction on the River Road in Corning. Access to River Road from South Corning will be closed. To get to Christian Life Baptist Church, you will need to enter River Road from Route 352 in Big Flats.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Roberts name may be sent to: Christian Life Baptist Church, 2523 Brown Hollow Rd.,
Corning, NY 14830.
Service Details
Visitation
When
Monday, October 21st, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm
Location
Christian Life Baptist Church
Address
2523 Brown Hollow Rd
Corning, New York 14830
Funeral Service
When
Monday, October 21st, 2024 12:00pm
Location
Christian Life Baptist Church
Address
2523 Brown Hollow Rd
Corning, New York 14830
Interment
When
Monday, October 21st, 2024 12:00pm
Location
Chapel Knoll Cemetery
Address
Victory Highway
Painted Post, New York 14870 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Robert M. 'Bob' Betts, please visit our Tree Store.