Betty Jane (Klement) Ryder

Betty Jane Ryder, 76, of Battle Creek and formerly of Saginaw died on Friday, December 6, 2024, due to head injuries, as a result of a fall.

Betty was born on September 24, 1948, in Saginaw, Michigan, the daughter of Frank and June L. (Garrett) Klement. She grew up in Saginaw and was a 1966 graduate of Arthur Hill High School. Her career in banking began in Saginaw as a bank teller and she retired as the Richland Chemical Bank manager. 

Betty married Allen Michael Ryder March 10, 1988 in Saginaw, MI. Surviving are her husband, known as “Al” or “Mike” Ryder; six children, Shawn McCray, Tammy Howard, Nicole (Terry) Ryder-Stevens, Lisa (Richard) Ryder-Robinson, Nick (Shantel) Ryder, Jill (Craig Wightman) Ryder; 18 grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews, cousins and their families. Betty was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Brian McCray; and two sisters, Judy Jones and Sally Prior. 

Betty was a member of Woodland Church, where she taught Sunday school for many years; was a member of a Bible study group and volunteered for various activities. Betty was an avid reader. She was a serious Detroit Tiger fan and followed the Lions too. She made the best Thanksgiving dressing, a recipe that will now be forever remembered. Betty loved her family and caring for others. 

A service to celebrate Betty’s life will be held at Woodland Church 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 11, 2025. A recording of the service may be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/1046031231

 Memorial contributions may be made to Woodland Church, 14425 Helmer Rd. South, Battle Creek, MI, 49015 or the American Cancer Society, PO Box 10069, Detroit, MI 48210. Arrangements are by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.