Ollie "Duke" Mae Betts

Ollie Mae Betts , affectionately known as Duke, was born February 12, 1956 in Cape Girardeau to Robert Betts and Ethel Eggleston Weakley. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her step-father, Don Weakley, her brother, Robert Betts, and her sisters, Phyllis Betts and Lenora Beal.

She gave her life to Christ at an early age and attended Futrell Temple in Cape Girardeau. She enjoyed going to church.

Duke was educated in the Cape Girardeau Public School system. She also got her Commercial Drivers License (CDL).

She became an over the road truck driver, where she toured the country for many years. Later, she returned home and began driving buses for the Scott County Central School District. Duke was with the district for over 15 years. She maintained a passion for driving until her health declined.

In her free time, she liked to fish and watch television. Her favorite things to watch were movies. She could also be found braiding hair and listening to music. Duke had a big heart and loved children. Known to children as “Mama Duke”, she kept them close to her and in her heart. She was so caring that she would give those around her a plate, a place to stay, a listening ear, and good advice without thinking twice. She was loved by many.

On Saturday, January 28, 2023 while at her home in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Duke was taken from our midst at the age of 66 years, 11 months, and 16 days.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories her sons, Sedaka (Romi) Betts of St. Louis, Missouri, and Tavis Betts, Marcus Betts, and DeAndre Betts all of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, her daughters, Yolanda Betts of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and Keanca Betts of St. Louis,  Missouri, 14 grandchildren, five great great grandchildren, a special friend, Louis Nelson of Lansing, Michigan, and a host of nephews,  nieces, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Friends may call Saturday, February 11, 2023 from 11:00 A.M. until the funeral hour of 12:00 noon at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Cape Girardeau, Missouri with Bishop Calvin E. Bird officiating. Interment will follow in Fairmount Cemetery in Cape Girardeau, Missouri with the Williams Funeral Homes in charge of arrangements.