Erving- James (Jim) F. Betters, 94, of Pleasant Street passed peacefully at Charlene Extended Care Facility on Thursday February 23rd.  He was born in Brattleboro, VT on July 17, 1922, the son of Fred H. Betters and Molly (Manning) E. Betters. He lived most of his life in Erving, the Millers Falls area and attended schools in Erving and Greenfield.

He proudly served in the Army’s 3rd Air Force in World War II earning the rank of Staff Sargent. He served as engine mechanic and flight engineer on The Mitchell B-25 Bomber with his dedicated pilots Lieutenants Fox and Dempsey. Jim also served briefly with the 159th Air Commando Squadron and was honorably discharged in December 1944 due to a serious non-combat injury.

He was employed by the duMont Corporation in Greenfield. He then went to work for Clark & Newcomb to learn television and radio repair. Upon completing his training he went to work with Miskinis Television sales, repair and service of Greenfield for 5 years. Jim became seriously ill and took semi-retirement. Jim was a worker and after several years of rehab he wanted to return to the work force.  A job opportunity at Umass became available as a custodian. A perfect fit until his managers observed his dedication to work and his attention to detail showed in all he did. They promoted him and soon he had the position of Senior Technical Assistant of the physical education department at Umass. He retired in 1978 due to ill health. Jim loved his day trips to Vermont and vacations in Maine and Cape Cod where he loved spending time with Gloria and his only grandson Ryan. He adored his home and spent many hours puttering around his yard, his cars and tinkering with anything that needed to be fixed. In his later years the glassed in porch became his sanctuary,  watching out over his lawn and just reminiscing with Gloria, family and friends.  

Jim leaves his beloved wife of 72 years, Gloria (Mathey) Betters, son, Gary and his wife Paula of Erving; their son Ryan his wife Jillian and their three wonderful boys, Brayden, Jameson and Gavin; Jim great-grandchildren that he so adored all of Erving; One nephew, Richard Betters and his wife Salome of California.

Jim was predeceased by his brother, Robert Betters.

At Jim’s request there will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be held at Highland Cemetery on June 10th at 11:00am.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Franklin County, 329 Conway Street, Greenfield, MA 01301 or to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Kostanski Funeral Home.   Sympathy message available at: www.kostanskifuneralhome.com.

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