Betty (Newsum) Keif

Betty Keif, 88, of Waterford, Michigan, passed away on July 27, 2024. She was born on June 2, 1936, in Pontiac, Michigan, to the late Robert and Pearl (Clark) Newsum.

Betty met the love of her life at a very young age and, at 19 years old, on June 17, 1955, she married Lowell Keif. Together, they lived in the same house in Waterford throughout their entire marriage, becoming known as the Grandparents of the neighborhood.

She worked as a seamstress at Winkleman's in Pontiac, Michigan, for many years, where she could sew anything and relished the opportunity to socialize. Betty also worked for the Bloomfield Hills school system as a cafeteria worker and, most recently, at the Waterford Senior Center in the gift shop. A member of the Waterford Senior Center, she enjoyed a full social calendar, known for her fun-loving, flirty, and creative personality. Betty was truly the life of the party, with a passion for dancing, especially to Elvis, and dressing up for Halloween.

When she wasn’t socializing, Betty loved attending garage sales, always on the lookout for the next amazing gadget. She had an impressive collection and a remarkable green thumb, taking great care of her houseplants. Crafting was another favorite pastime; she created beautiful jewelry and was renowned for her crocheting, particularly her stunning crocheted roses, which she loved to give to friends.

Betty is survived by her loving children, Fred (Wendy) Keif and Tina Garner; grandchildren, Freeman (Teresa Tabor) Keif, Stacy (David) Dobbs, and Andrew (Dani) Page; great-grandchildren, Autumn, Hunter, Ryan, Avery, Kayden, Finnian, Dade, and Dominic; siblings, Alice Barrett and Jerry Newsum; many adored nieces and nephews; and her beloved friends and neighbors.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lowell Keif; granddaughter, Rachel Page; great-grandson, Elan Dobbs; and brother, James Newsum.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2024, from 11 am to 1 pm at Coats Funeral Home, 3141 Sashabaw Rd, Waterford, MI 48329, with a funeral service starting at 1 pm. Minister Joe Salvador will be officiating. Burial will follow at Ottawa Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the charity of your choice, keeping in mind that Betty had a soft spot for animals and children.

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