BettyLu Scheer-Dennis

BettyLu Scheer-Dennis was so much more than her remarkable accomplishments - though they were many. Born on April 10, 1923, in Aurora, Indiana, to Juanita and Roscoe Hilton, she grew up with a song in her heart and a sparkle in her eye.

Music was her first love - she studied for eight years at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and became a professional singer, sharing her beautiful voice with the world. But when the world was at war, she answered the call of duty and joined the United States Navy on January 27, 1944.

During her service as a Specialist 3rd Class, BettyLu worked in clerical and receptionist roles, helping to keep the wheels of the Navy turning through some of the darkest days of World War II. She served with quiet strength and dignity - never seeking praise, though she certainly earned it.

After the war, BettyLu returned to her passions and her life - she continued her education, sang professionally, and filled her days with the things and people she loved most. She was a talented cook, an enthusiastic golfer, a devoted reader, and a generous soul who gave so much of herself to others.

At the Armed Forces Retirement Home, she became a true icon - a shining light to everyone who had the joy of knowing her. She was known for her wit, her grace, and her unmistakable charm. She even became one of the AFRH's beloved "calendar girls," capturing the spirit of fun and vitality that defined her life.

BettyLu was the last of our cherished ladies who served in World War II, and she carried that honor humbly. She was deeply loved — not just for what she did, but for who she was: warm, elegant, and full of life.

We will miss her laughter, her stories, her kindness, and the way she made everyone feel special. Her melody will stay in our hearts forever.

Fair winds and following seas, BettyLu. You will never be forgotten.

Above tribute by Lisa Hall on behalf of her friends at the AFRH

BettyLu was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Stuart Scheer I and Bryon Dennis; and her sister, Mary Theobold.

She is survived by her children, Stuart E. Scheer II (Linda) and Robert Scheer; her grandchildren, James Scheer (Angelique) and Elizabeth Scheer Blanchard (Jody); and her great-grandchildren: André Blanchard, Hayden Blanchard, Cullen Blanchard, Abigail Scheer, Drake Scheer, Heather Wilkerson, and Betsy Jackson. She is also survived by one great-great-grandchild, Keira Jackson, and her sibling, Pat Hilton Barker.

A memorial service will be held at 10 am on Friday, July 25, 2025 at the Armed Forces Retirement Home Chapel. Interment with her husband, Dennis, will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery.

BettyLu had a deep appreciation for the care she received at AFRH-Gulfport. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Residents Fund at AFRH-Gulfport, 1800 Beach Drive, Gulfport, MS.

The family wishes to express heartfelt thanks to AFRH for their many years of devoted care and concern for BettyLu’s well-being. Special gratitude is extended to Kathy Collins and Judy Taijerson for their care and companionship. Kathy always considered her “a second mom.” A huge hug goes out to all the gals and guys at AFRH for the love they shared with BettyLu.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of BettyLu Scheer-Dennis.