Steven "Steve" Bryan Bettis
Luke 23:43- And He said to him, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise."
After a heroic battle with Covid-19, Steven (Steve) Bryan Bettis, 55, of Chattanooga, passed away on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, from complications due to covid pneumonia. Although this unimaginable loss was an utter shock to family and friends within the community and beyond, this was no surprise to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who had already prepared a place for his beloved son, Steve.
Steve was born in Chillicothe, Ohio, yet spent much of his early childhood in Chattanooga. Prior to attending the Baylor School as a boarding student, his father took a job assignment in Saudi Arabia where Steve lived for several years broadening his understanding of life outside the United States. After graduating from Baylor, Steve attended the University of Tennessee at Knoxville where he was actively involved in the Kappa Sigma Fraternity and student leadership while earning his Bachelors Degree in Economics.
For those who knew Steve, one can surely attest that there was no better friend or ally than Steve Bettis. He was the master of networking, prime builder of teams, thoughtful innovator, and the most loyal of friends. Steve’s infectious, belly laugh and genuine, yet mischievous grin were magnetic in ways that drew others to him.
Steve was an absolute outdoors enthusiast, a lover of all sports and fierce competitor, whether Steve was the spectator or participant. Over the past 15 months, Steve and his wife, Vivian, enjoyed spending time at their home in Park City, Utah, where hiking and skiing had consumed much of their recreational time.
Although Steve had many worthy accomplishments of his own throughout his 30+ years in the pharmaceutical and medical science space, it was his children and wife of whom he was most proud and treasured dearly. Steve was a cheerleader for all. He never ceased to acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments and victories of others, especially when it came to his children, their friends and peers.
Steve leaves a legacy of greatness among those lives he touched and mentored both professionally and personally. He was a friend to ALL... always willing to lend a hand, make a call, or give to others most generously.
Steve is survived by his adoring wife of 26 years, Vivian (Cook) Bettis of Chattanooga; his son, Owen Bettis; his daughter, Olivia Bettis; his mother, Gail Bettis (Frank Kasher); his father, Shelton Bettis; his brother, Scott Bettis; his sister, Kara (Keith) Wimberley; his sister-in-law, Julie (Greg) Bohannon; his nieces, Grace Bettis, Lainee Bohannon, Lydia Bohannon, and Ella Wimberley; and his nephew, Knox Wimberley.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Oct. 30, at 11 a.m. in the Alumni Chapel at The Baylor School, 171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37405. A reception and Celebration of Life is to follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Steve Bettis to "The Baylor School', a sacred place Steve held so dear.
Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson (423) 531-3975.