Betty Jo Hanchett (Irwin), age 79 of Clare, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at the MediLodge Assisted Living Facility of Clare, surrounded by her family. On March 20, 1943, Betty was born the eldest of four children to Lewis and Virginia (Green) Irwin in Clare, MI. She was united in marriage to William “Bill” Hanchett on April 19, 1965. Remaining in the Central Michigan area for her entire childhood and early adult life, Betty was a proud graduate of the Farwell High School Class of 1961 and later achieved a bachelor’s degree in education from Central Michigan University in 1969. Shortly after Betty’s graduation from CMU, her work career began as a teacher, but later evolved into many other careers that Betty enjoyed along her path that included being a homemaker, a daycare provider, and a secretary. In her younger years, Betty was an active member of the Sanford United Methodist Church, a Girl Scout Troop Leader for her daughters, and a very proud 15-year member of the Daughters of the American Revolution—where she faithfully served as her chapter secretary for 13 years. Betty lived to love and protect her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren above all else, but her many other passions included playing card games, bingo, arts and crafting, studying American history, and reading—especially romance novels.
Betty is survived by her three daughters Kim (David Smith) Hanchett of Clare, Kelly (Scott) Poirier of Midland, and Cassi (Don) Almond of Hubert, N.C., her grandchildren Josh, Cadi, Madi, and Bree, and her great-grandchildren Katrina, Cadin, Colton, Caleb, Jaxyn, and Jozzy-B. Other survivors include her sister Kathy (Norm) Brown of Farwell and her ex-husband Bill Hanchett of Rogers City, MI. Betty was preceded in death by her parents Lewis and Virginia Irwin and her beloved brothers Arlo and Earl Irwin.
A celebration of Betty’s life will take place on Friday, January 27, 2023 at the Farwell Community of Christ Church at 1:00 P.M. with Mr. Gary Brown officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Friday from 12:00 P.M. to the time of Betty’s service at 1:00 P.M., and a luncheon will follow. Memorial contributions in honor of Betty may be directed to Relay for Life. For those unable to attend, online condolences may be shared on the Hanchett family page at www.stephenson-wyman.com