Bette C. Atwater

Bette C. Atwater (Carr) peacefully transitioned from this life on January 11, 2026, at the age of 85. She was born on March 1, 1940, in Durham, North Carolina, to the late William (Sr.) and the late Alma (Masterson) Carr. Not long after her birth, the family returned to Wilberforce, Ohio. Bette led her family to become members of Zion Baptist Church, as she chose Zion to be the church of her baptism. She graduated from Xenia High School at just 15-years of age, and went on to enroll at Central State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd). While in college, Bette married; however, the couple divorced shortly thereafter. Years later, Bette married Charles Atwater, and the couple raised a family of 3 children.

Before marrying Charles, Bette lived in Dayton, Ohio, where she worked as an Electronic Circuitry Assembler for National Cash Register while raising her two eldest children as a single parent. After their marriage, she and Charles moved to Saginaw, Michigan, where she worked as a chemical technician for Dow Corning. The family later settled in Flint, Michigan, where Bette, now raising three children, Rick, Trish, and Brian, began her career in education as an elementary math and science teacher with the Flint City School District. She went on to teach middle school math and science in Mt. Morris City Schools, Mt. Morris, Michigan, serving as Head of the Science Department in both the Mt. Morris and Dayton City School District, Dayton, Ohio.

After retiring from teaching, Bette moved to Cincinnati to be closer to her children and grandchildren. Never one to be idle, she freelanced as a Scientific Research Associate for the Cincinnati EPA, Hillshire Farms, The Kroger Company, and Procter & Gamble. When she finally retired from all professional pursuits, Bette returned to Wilberforce, where she built her forever home next door to the house in which she was raised—on the very land where she once played and which she later inherited from her parents. That home became a gathering place for family. She continued to put her chemistry and lab skills to use as a gourmet cook, delighting family and friends with dishes created as thoughtfully as any experiment.

Although Bette built a wonderful career that served her well, her greatest joy was rearing her three children. She approached motherhood with the same intention she brought to teaching—setting high standards, offering steady guidance, and surrounding her children with love, laughter, and lifelong lessons. Family was her proudest classroom and her most enduring legacy. She would often welcome outside children into her home, allowing them to feel a little more secure and loved.

She was beautiful, intelligent, and charismatic—never just entering a room, but commanding it. A gifted storyteller who could hold her audience spellbound with a sharp and often hilarious perspective. She will be deeply missed for her brilliant mind, powerful presence, and infectious humor. Heaven is surely brighter, bolder, and far better organized now that she’s there, confidently setting things in order. So, good job, Bette; your lessons will live on forever. — Class Dismissed!

Bette was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Dr. Alfred C. Carr, Sr., M.D.

Bette will be lovingly remembered by her brother, Bill (LouEva) Carr, Jr. of Detroit, Michigan; her three children: son Rev. Rick (Rhonda) King of Cedar Hill, Texas; daughter Patricia Meridy of West Carrollton, Ohio; and son Brian Atwater of Huntington Woods, Michigan. She also leaves behind three grandchildren: Ryan (Brandi) King - Union, Kentucky, Erin King - Elizabethtown, Kentucky and Jennifer Meridy - West Carrollton, Ohio; seven great-grandchildren: Donovan, McKenzie, Isaiah, Merissa, Brooklyn, Reece, and Malani; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many friends who were educated by her, whether they knew it or not.

Our family gives a very special thank you to Demetrius Taylor, neighbor and loving surrogate son. He was always there when needed, with his special touch of making sure she felt safe, just as any Superhero would do. Also, a very special thank you to Tracy Jamison, a caregiver who gave tender loving care to Bette for several years.

We are profoundly saddened by our loss and profoundly grateful for her love.

“Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord.” - Matthew 25:23

Visitation will be held from 10:00am-11:00am on Friday, January 23, 2026 at Zion Baptist Church (565 E Main St Xenia), where funeral services will begin at 11:00am with Gary Chapman officiating.

Bette will be laid to rest at Massies Creek Cemetery (2127 Tarbox Cemetery Rd, Cedarville) following the service.

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