Betty Ann Hurtte

A Time To Be Born
“To whom much is given, much is expected” “We make a living
by what we get, but make a life by what we give”. These values
were consistently exemplified in thought, word and deed by the
remarkable life of Betty Hurtte. She was born on December 21,
1944, in Detroit Michigan, the only child of John Ollie and Betty
Gordon Leslie. Betty’s love for reading was established by the
time she was six or seven years old and continued throughout
her entire life. As a child she would sometimes orchestrate fun
games inspired by the exciting adventures she’d read about. Her
caring and generous personality made people feel welcomed
every time she hosted an event or gathering. As a lifelong
Detroiter Betty received her education from Detroit Public
Schools and graduated from The High School of Commerce.

A Time To Love
On September 26, 1966, Betty married Ralph Hurtte. Betty
and Ralph’s marriage was blessed with one daughter Kimberly
Hurtte. Betty utilized her passion and talents to coordinate
meaningful events that impacted the lives of her family, culture,
community, colleagues, and extended church family. She loved
lively discussions, the arts and singing in the church choir,
family gatherings, and cooking. She was an amazing cook.
While it is difficult to identify her best dish, Betty’s homemade
chicken noodle soup was fabulous. Betty believed it was
her duty to do God’s will through un-selfish acts of love and
kindness and these efforts made her life meaningful as active
member of Renaissance Unity.

A Time To Treasure
Betty had a great passion for education, volunteering,
and the occasional road trip. She was even enthusiastic
about participating in spontaneous game nights during
family gatherings. It should also be noted that Betty had
great affection for her grand pup Otis and her collection
of miniature black and white cow figurines. Betty enjoyed
family, especially spending summers with her grandson
Adam who she adored. Her professional life was devoted to
leadership as the Events Manager at The Detroit Historical
Museum, and Director of Marketing for the Detroit Public
Libraries.

A Time To Rest
Betty left this world as gracefully as she lived it and for
this, we are eternally grateful. She leaves to cherish her
loving memory: her daughter Kimberly Peeples, son-inlaw
David Peeples, grandson Adam Peeples: two sisters
Malinda Walton, and Theresa (William) Leslie-Robinson,
three brothers, Michael (Llenda) Leslie, Howard (Carol)
Leslie, and David (Bela) Leslie, and a host of nieces,
nephews, cousins, and church family. Her parents, John
Leslie, Betty G. Allen, and brothers Bobby Leslie and
Kevin Kelly preceded her in death.
Betty’s impeccable style, wonderful sense of humor, and
radiant smile will continue to light up our lives.