Betty Jean Whitaker, 74, of Defiance, Oh, passed away peacefully on  February 11, 2016 at the Defiance ProMedica Regional Hospital, with her family by her side.  
  
She was born on September 12, 1941 to Robert and Mary Ellen (Baney) Reichenbach in North Baltimore, OH. On August 30, 1986 she married David Wendell Whitaker. Betty and David Wendell would have celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary this year.
  
Betty enjoyed serving her neighbors and friends in our community by volunteering at the House of Ruth and The PATH Center. Over the years, she helped supported countless people in various ways. If there was a need, she would fill it. Betty also worked at various retail locations in Defiance, Leisure Oaks Nursing Home, and was a member of the Defiance VFW Auxiliary.
  
Betty is survived by her loving spouse David Wendell Whitaker, children; Jeff Duryea, Jamie Duryea, and Rob (Lori) Whitaker, all of Defiance, Ohio, 5 grandchildren, and many great grandchildren.
  
She was preceded in death by parents, son, Jerry Duryea, Jr., and a brother.
  
Visitation will be held on Monday, February 15, 2016, from 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home, Inc., Defiance, Ohio.
    
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, February 16, 2016, at the Schaffer Funeral  Home, Defiance, Ohio, with Rev. Max Begley, officiating.
  
Burial will take place in the Riverview Memory Gardens.
  
Memorials are suggested to the The PATH Center or the House of Ruth. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com