Betty Lou Dearing

Betty Lou Robinson Dearing was born on September 14, 1939, in Dayton, Ohio, as one of seven children to Harvey Robinson, Sr. and Thirzana Robinson. She grew up in Dayton and attended the local public school system. During her time at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, Betty was actively involved in the band, playing the clarinet. She graduated from High School in 1957. She also was an avid skater and was often at the skating rink. In fact, that’s where she met her husband whom she married in 1960.

After high school, Betty began her career at the Defense Electronic Supply Company (formerly Gentile) as a clerk typist. Known for her strong work ethic and commitment to self-improvement, she continuously sought opportunities to learn and advance her skills. Her dedication led to promotions within DESC, and later, she joined the VA Center as a Personnel Assistant. There, she gained valuable on-the-job experience, attended college courses at Sinclair Community College, and earned several professional certifications. Betty's drive to elevate her professional status led her to Wright Patterson Air Force Base in 1983, where she worked as a Personnel Specialist. During her tenure at Wright-Patt, she received numerous awards and commendations, serving until her retirement in 1993.

Beyond her career, Betty was a devoted member of Tabernacle Baptist Church, where she held life membership. She contributed to her church community by teaching children’s Sunday school and vacation bible school, leading the Guild Girls, co-chairing watch night services, and participating in the Loving Hearts Club. After retiring, Betty volunteered at Wesley Community Center in the transportation office. Her skills and dedication quickly earned her a paid position as Transportation Manager, a role she held for 15 years.

Betty was passionate about shopping for clothes, especially finding quality apparel at bargain prices. Her knack for discovering deals benefited many, and she was regarded as a master shopper. In addition to shopping, Betty was an accomplished seamstress, capable of creating almost any garment. She was a caring and thoughtful individual, always going above and beyond to help others without expecting anything in return. Her warmth made her a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, cherished by her family and respected by her colleagues.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey Sr. and Thirzana Robinson, her brothers Julius Ceasor, Victor, and Harvey Jr., her sister Joan Horton, and her son-in-law Dr. Thomas Cummings. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, John W. Dearing, Sr.; her son, John W. Dearing, Jr. (Dionne); her daughter, Dr. Twyla J. Cummings; her sister, Dr. June R. Moss; her brother, Dr. Chester K. Robinson (Sherry); six grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends. Betty's lifelong friend, Mrs. Beverly Stevens, also mourns her passing.

Funeral Service 12 pm Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 380 S. Broadway St., Dayton, OH. Visitation 11 am- 12 pm at which time family will receive friends. Interment Dayton National Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to: Alzheimer's Association/ Miami Valley Chapter/ 6 N. Main Street/ Dayton, Oh 45402 / or visit: http://www.alz.org/dayton

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