Betty Jean McNeil, a lifelong resident of the Evart area, age 95, passed away Saturday, April 19, 2025 at Reed City Skilled Nursing Center. She was born on December 29, 1929 to Carl and Lydia (Freed) Manier in Flint, Michigan. Betty was married to Lee A. McNeil on January 3, 1948 in Reed City and they made their home in Evart and were dedicated to their farm and raising their flock of sheep. Every year they would have people from all over come to help on the farm and they were treated like family and surely well fed. Betty was known for the masterpieces she could craft in the kitchen. Anyone who helped on the farm was sure to return after they tasted her delicious dishes like rhubarb or peach pies, German chocolate cake or leg of lamb, just to name a few.

In her leisure time, she enjoyed playing cards and friendly banter with friends; Barb Youngs, Martha Hartman, Jerry & Charlotte DeWitt and Deb & Mike Beadle.

Betty is survived by: two foster daughters, Laurie (Jeff) Bowden of Ludington, and Sharon (Mike) Creer of Saginaw; five grandchildren & their families, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by: her husband, Lee in 2003; three sisters, Gwendolyn Woods, Phyllis Manier, and Virginia (Pete) DeHaan; half-brother, John Manier and her parents, Carl and Lydia.

Care has been entrusted to Corey Funeral Home in Evart where cremation has taken place. Betty will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery in Evart, her graveside will take place at 1:30pm on May 17, 2025.