Edith Aileen Bettner

1930 - 2026

Edith Aileen Bettner, 95, of Waldron, passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Miller's Merry Manor in Hope.

She was born on April 23, 1930, in Shelby County, the daughter of Wesley Corydon and Flora (Medsker) Crosby. On July 2, 1948, she married Howard Earl "Red" Bettner, and he preceded her in death on February 4, 2025.

Edith is survived by her children, Gerald Bettner and wife, Linda, of Bloomington, Nelson Bettner and wife, Donna, of Boggstown, Shirley Saddler of Van Buren, and Max Bettner and wife, Renita, of Columbus; and son-in-law, Jay Benson of Waldron. She loved spending time with her 16 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to Howard, Edith was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Sherry Benson; son-in-law, Rev. Michael Saddler; daughter-in-law, Kathy Bettner; sister, Norma Chandler; and grandson, Travis Kelley.

In 1948, Edith graduated from Waldron High School.

She was a member of the Geneva United Methodist Church. When her children were young, she enjoyed teaching the children in Sunday school.

Edith and Howard, owned and operated, Bettner Wire Coating Dies Inc. in Columbus, from 1987 until retiring in 2020. During World War II, Edith operated the switchboard in Geneva.

She also enjoyed sewing dresses for her daughters, playing the piano and organ, and watching birds. One of her favorite hobbies was mowing the lawn on her Cub Cadet. She also hosted all of the family gatherings, creating wonderful memories for everyone.

Visitation will be from 11 am to 1 pm, Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St., in Shelbyville.

Funeral services will follow at 1 pm, Wednesday, at the funeral home, with Pastor Kristen Hanson and Rev. Mark Dodd officiating.

Interment will be at Van Pelt Cemetery in Waldron.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Geneva United Methodist Church, 3107 E. Vandalia Road, Flat Rock, Indiana 47234.

Online condolences may be shared with Edith's family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.