Betty "Betty J" Keith

Betty Jane Keith, affectionately known as Betty J, passed away on September 16, 2026, at her home in Dayton, surrounded by her family. She was born on June 22, 1932, in Dayton, Ohio, and lived a life marked by strength, warmth, and unmistakable spirit.

Betty was a spunky, loving, and fierce woman whose straightforward and very direct nature was part of what made her so memorable to all who knew her. She carried herself with confidence and individuality, and in her younger years she was known as the “Smoking Rose,” a fancy smoker in the style of Bette Davis. She enjoyed her cigarettes for many years before quitting smoking about 20 years ago, a reflection of her resolve and determination.

Her working life was defined by dedication and constancy. Betty retired from the Defense Electronic Supply Center, where she held a government job and worked for at least 30 years. That long career reflected her steady commitment and the dependable character that shaped so much of her life.

Outside of work, Betty found joy in the things that made life personal and memorable. She enjoyed collecting ceramic Rose vases, listening to jazz music, and traveling with her late husband. Some of her happiest moments were the simple, treasured ones spent with family—playing cards, hosting card parties, and enjoying the laughter and closeness that came with being together. In her younger years, she was known as the “Smoking Rose,” a nickname that captured her style and spirit. She was remembered as a fancy smoker, like Betty Davis, and she enjoyed her cigarettes until she quit smoking about 20 years ago.

Betty leaves behind a family who will continue to carry her love and her spirit forward. She is survived by her daughters, Teri (James) Neal and Toni Miles; her grandchildren, Maurice (Nicole) Miles, Patrick Caslin, and Angela (Gavin) Eberhardt; and her great-grandchildren, Xavier, Zahra, Nicole, Nia, Gavin Jr., Amayah, Anayah, and Brayden. She also leaves the extended bonds of family life that surrounded these generations and brought her such happiness. Her love of family was not simply one part of her life—it was at the heart of it.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband for over 50 years, Kenneth Keith; her mother, Onie Manley; her son, Kevin Keith; and her brother, Lewis Manley.

Betty will be remembered for her strong will, her candor, her style, and the deep affection she gave to her family. Her presence was bold and loving, and her memory will remain a treasured part of the lives she touched.

Memorial gathering with family and friends will be held from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026 at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3940 Kettering Blvd. A service to celebrate Betty J's life will begin at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. 

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