Betty Lou Dillman Reitz

Betty Lou Dillman Reitz, 89, of Fountain Hills died peacefully on Sept. 7, 2019 at her residence following a recent illness; her family was at her side.

Betty was born on Oct. 11, 1929 in Oxford, N.J., to Josephine and Richmond Dillman. She was the youngest of three daughters.

After marrying her husband, Francis “Jake” Reitz in 1948, Betty lived most of her life in Belvidere, N.J.; they were married for more than 49 years. She and Jake owned Reitz’s Department Store in Belvidere for many years before she became principal clerk stenographer for the Welfare Department at the Warren County Courthouse in 1969.

In addition to serving on the county election board, Betty was also a member of the Women’s Club in Belvidere. Betty and Jake were founding members of the Belvidere Community Pool Association and members of the WeTotem travel trailer club.

Betty and Jake relocated to Barefoot Bay, Fla. in 1989 where they enjoyed golf, boating, travel, shuffleboard, and belonged to numerous local clubs. Betty relocated to Fountain View Village in 2016 where she was a repeat graduate of Brain Health University and enjoyed travel, water aerobics, and card games.

Betty was a member of the United Methodist Church of Belvidere, N.J.; the United Methodist Church of Sebastian, Fla.; and The Fountains United Methodist Church of Fountain Hills.

Surviving are Betty’s son, Bradley Reitz of Henderson, Nev.; daughter Beverly “Leigh” Ervin of Fountain Hills; and grandchildren, Alexandra Reitz, Kelsey Ervin Hunt, Gregory Reitz, Melissa Ervin, and Jack Ervin.

Betty will be remembered for her sense of humor, patience, and kindness to all along with her commitment to fitness and her enduring love for her family.

A memorial service is planned Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019 at 11:30 a.m. at The Fountains United Methodist Church, 15300 N. Fountain Hills Blvd., in Fountain Hills.

Interment will be held at Sebastian Cemetery in Sebastian, Florida later this year.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hospice of the Valley of Phoenix at 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, Ariz. 85014.