Joe Betterton

Joe Bailey Betterton passed away August 2nd at the age of 92 in the care of Presbyterian Hospice. He is survived by Virginia, his wife of 69 years. Also, by his daughters Jane Betterton and Debbie Dialberto. And by his four grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Joe was born in Decatur, Alabama on October 22, 1931. He grew up in Hartselle, Alabama.

After graduating from High School he enrolled in the University of Northern Alabama. He graduated from there in 1953 with honors. He received his ROTC commission at that time in the Army Military Police. He was then sent to Killeen Base in Texas. He led a platoon who guarded materials stored there by AEC.

Through mutual friends he met Virginia. After she graduated from the University of Texas, they married on September 17th, 1955. They lived in Killeen, Texas. After Joe's military obligation he was offered a job with AEC. Then a year and a half later he was offered a job in Albuquerque with AEC/DOE and moved there in 1957. He retired from AEC/DOE in 1987 after 30 years in civil service. He received many awards throughout his long career.

Then continued working for other companies including BDM/Northrop Grumman and LATA. He made friends wherever he worked and many became long time friends. He was a hard worker and really enjoyed working. He also was able to coordinate with these companies to take long vacations with his wife Virginia with lots of great memories! He officially retired at age 81!

Joe was a family man and he enjoyed being together with family. They took many great trips with Jane and Debbie over the years! Lots of fun stories and went to many great places together. He liked spending the holidays together, too! We will miss him very much!

There will be a memorial service on Saturday, September 21st 2024, at 10 am at FRENCH-Wyoming.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Alzheimer's Association of New Mexico alz.org/newmexico or Charity of choice.