Penwell Turner Funeral Home - Shelby, Ohio

James Patrick “Jim” Betts

James Patrick “Jim” Betts, age 56, of Shelby, passed away peacefully Thursday morning, May 9, 2024 at his home.

Jim was born August 10, 1967 in Shelby to Donald H. and Evelyn L. (Barber) Betts. Although Jim had a life with Down syndrome, he has always been a blessing and a joy. He was gentle with children, was a “tickle monster”, and those who knew him well, knew of his stubborn side too.

Jim was fortunate to live a full and active life far past doctors’ early life expectancy. Jim graduated in 1989 from Richland Newhope Center and, from graduation until 2020, worked for the Newhope Industries in the woodshop on Longview Avenue. He thoroughly enjoyed going to work and to day-hab. Jim loved basketball, playing on the Newhope Bears basketball team, and enjoyed participating in other Special Olympic activities when he was younger such as track and wrestling. Speaking of wrestling, Jim was a major fan of WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and adored the Pittsburgh Steelers having a plethora of memorabilia including clothing and room décor. He also liked listening to country music and attended numerous concerts.

Jim is survived by his devoted and loving mother: Evelyn Betts; siblings: Lisa (Doug) Lear of New Washington, Amber Betts of Crestline, Brian Betts of Galion, and Larry Betts of Shelby; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews; uncle and aunts: Roy (Lee) Barber, Carol Barber, and Shirley Barber; his Cass Services friends, especially Cassie, Tiffany, and Tom; caretaker: Robin; and numerous other relatives and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his dad: Don; maternal grandparents: Harley and Pearl (McFarland) Barber; paternal grandparents: Lawrence and Leona (Raymond) Betts; and numerous aunts and uncles.

Family and friends are welcome on Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 10:30-11:30 am at the Penwell Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will immediately follow at 11:30 am. Pastor Ian Vencil, Jim’s friend, will officiate the services with burial following in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby. Memorial contributions may be made to Richland Newhope Industries, Richland County Special Olympics, or Hospice of North Central Ohio and left in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may be left on Jim’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellTurner.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneral).

To view Jim’s tribute video click here: Jim’s Tribute Video

Memories & Condolence

  1. Robin Wingrove says:

    Prayers of comfort to Evelyn and Jim’s siblings. Jim was joy to be around. I’m gonna miss his smile and him. God bless you all in the days ahead. Love Robin

  2. Rita Falquette says:

    Dear Evelyn,
    I was sorry to see of Jim’s passing. Thought’s and prayers for you and the family.

  3. Nancy Perman says:

    We are so very sorry Evelyn and family. Prayers for peace and comfort
    Nancy & Jerry Perman

  4. Jennie Guisinger Schroeder says:

    I am so sorry for the loss of Jim. I have many fond memories of him and the rest of the family when I was with Carol.

  5. Joe & Terri DeVito says:

    Evelyn and family,
    So very sorry to hear about Jimmy! Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

  6. Connie Ament says:

    I am so sorry for your loss. I know Jimmy was much loved and supported. He will be missed.
    Connie Ament

  7. Margie Hoover says:

    Evelyn so very sorry to learn of Jimmy’s passing. you are in my thoughts and prayers. and have my deepest sympathy.

  8. Trevor Bender says:

    Jim was such an amazing individual to serve. He and his family were such a blessing to have worked with over the years. He will be missed dearly.

  9. Marilyn Shepherd says:

    My deepest condolences to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

  10. Kim Duncan says:

    I had the pleasure of being around Jim for 11 years. His smile could be seen from a distance. I always enjoyed our visits! I could always count on him being in a pleasant mood, which many times made my day. His family was so supportive of him and, he was a blessing to all he came in contact with. He was a kind and respectful person and will be greatly missed!

  11. Charisse Finn says:

    Evelyn, I am so sorry for the loss of your son…so sad. ‘When someone you love becomes a memory, the memories become a treasure.’ Your son will always be in your heart. With deepest sympathy, Charisse Finn (TE Connectivity – Repair Department)

  12. Richard Russell says:

    My prayers and sympathy to Jim’s family. Good memories of the fun times we all had when Jim and all the Betts kids would stop by when we lived on Whitney Avenue. Rest In Peace.

  13. Heather Gibson says:

    I am so sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. We all missed him here at the woodshop. You could always tell that he loved working. He was a ray of sunshine with all of his jokes and smiles. I am thankful to have known and worked with him here at RNI. Prayers for peace in your heart in the coming weeks.

  14. Ross Family says:

    Accept our condolences for your loss. God Bless

  15. Wayne Freier says:

    Dear Evelyn and Family, I just learned today of Jim’s passing, know your in our thoughts and prayer’s for comfort. Remember the many Happy Memories shared over the years. Love Wayne, Roger and Jean

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