Betty Jean James

JAMES, Ms. Betty Jean - age 81, passed away Saturday, January 3, 2026 in Orland Park, Illinois. Family hour 10:00AM Saturday, January 24, 2026, at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 394 Howland Avenue, with funeral services commencing immediately at 11:00AM. Pastor Solomon Smith, Jr., Officiating. Interment Perry Mount Park Cemetery, 878 North Perry Street. Friends and pallbearers will assemble 10:00AM at the church Saturday. Ms. James will lie instate in the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home, 268 North Perry Street, and may be viewed between the hours of 12:00PM - 6:00PM Friday. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider a donation to the Betty James Culinary Arts Fund. For additional details, please contact Anthony Fletcher. Betty James was born on May 26, 1944, to Lucille Brown and D.M. Moore in Athens, Louisiana. At the age of eight, she relocated to Pontiac, Michigan, where she would lay deep roots and build a life of service, love, and faith. Betty joined New Hope Baptist Church in 1956, where she accepted Christ and immediately became an active member, both as a child and throughout her adult life. As a youth, she served faithfully in the Junior Choir, Junior Ushers, and Youth Department. As an adult, she continued her commitment as an Usher and later served on the Deaconess Board, where she held the role of President for four (4) years. She attended Whittier Elementary School and graduated from Pontiac Central High School in 1963. A proud and devoted “Chief,” Betty remained actively involved by serving on the class reunion board for many years. In 1964, Betty married Roosevelt Fletcher Sr. From this union, three children were born: Roosevelt Fletcher Jr., Anthony Fletcher, and Traci Fletcher. Betty had an unwavering love for her children and extended that same love to all her family. She was a trusted resource and caregiver, often serving as a devoted “love-giver” to senior family members. She instilled values of responsibility, self-respect, and respect for others in her children from an early age—not through lectures, but by modeling the behavior she expected. It was not uncommon to see Betty ministering to the sick and shut-in, often preparing their favorite meals with humility and grace. She was a fierce advocate for education and demonstrated her commitment by covering 100% of her children’s college expenses. Her generosity and dedication extended to her grandchildren, as she played a vital role in supporting their educational pursuits as well. Betty’s favorite pastimes included collecting recipes and cookbooks, crafting, and photography—a passion reflected in her cherished collection of photo albums. She took immense pride in caring for the elderly and was often seen cooking large meals and walking down Valencia Street, sharing her award-winning dishes with beloved neighbors—just because. After 41 years of dedicated service, Betty retired from General Motors, where she worked in numerous roles throughout her career. Betty departed this life on January 3, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She leaves to cherish her precious memory her two sons, Roosevelt Fletcher Jr. (Linda) and Anthony Fletcher (Vista); and her daughter, Traci Fletcher (Abubakar). She is also survived by her sisters, Danita Moore and Linda Wyatt; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She further leaves to cherish her memory her special son, Johnny Harris; her special daughters, Jodie Pittman and Stephanie Brown; her godchildren, Marquita Adams, Dollie Taylor, and Rashad Fleming; along with a host of loving cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Lucille Cohen; father, D.M. Moore; stepfather, Booker T. Cohen; stepmother, Vehuwanda Moore; sisters, Louise Cohen and Clifford Gray; and brothers, Carl Cohen, Charles Cohen, Louis Cohen, Elton “Donnie” Moore, and Greg Moore. Some of her most cherished sayings still bring smiles today. When asked, “What’s happening, Mom?” she would confidently reply, “Me…as she pounded her chest.” As you left her home, she’d lovingly remind you, “Now you be careful out there.” And no matter the gesture—big or small—she always made sure to say, “Thank you.” Rest in Peace BJ Mission accomplished

Betty Jean James

May 26, 1944 - January 3, 2026