Bethany Jean Mehr

Bethany Jean Mehr peacefully passed away Thursday, February 6, 2025, at the Willows Residence in Howell, MI.  

She was born on December 21, 1932, in Lansing, MI to Fern Harvey and Lawrence Runciman. The Harvey family was from Mason, MI, where they ran a prosperous restaurant throughout the Depression helping many families during the tough times. The Runciman family was from Chelsea, MI where they operated a farm where many family reunions were held for many years. 

At an early age, Bethany fell in love with the stage and performing. Singing in choirs at church and school, playing clarinet in band, and performing as a majorette for the marching band. Bethany graduated from Eastern High School in Lansing in 1950. After graduating, Bethany was accepted to Michigan State for Education. Early at Michigan State, Bethany attended a hot dog roast where she found herself on a blind date with Clyde, starting a once-in-a-lifetime type of love. The summer of her Junior year she moved to New York City to study music at The Juilliard School. At Juilliard, she honed her vocal prowess focusing on Opera. Her time spent at Julliard was something she spoke fondly about. 

Within a year of meeting one another, Clyde and Bethany were married and started a family all while pursuing their Bachelors degrees. 

Wanting to further her career in Education, Bethany pursued a Master’s Degree in Education from Michigan State all while substitute teaching and raising a family! Her passion for education continued as she taught in the Wayne Westland School District for 15 years. Where she started out as a substitute teacher and worked her way up to teaching special education. 

Bethany was an active Soprano with an international touring choir. She even went on to record her own gospel and Broadway CDs. Throughout the years, Bethany continued to sing at various venues with Clyde in tow supporting her on the soundboard. Her creativity did not stop with music, as she wrote multiple published nonfiction books. 

She believed that God gives us all unique talents and abilities enabling us to attain a successful life. For Bethany, that was her beautiful voice and gift of expression which brought enjoyment and praise to many through song and written word.

Bethany was a devoted Christian who loved to share the good word of the Gospel. She attended Cornerstone Evangelical Presbyterian Church and sang in the choir for many years.

Looking back at her life, she was most proud of her sons, their accomplishments and the beautiful families they created.She could not believe how blessed she was to have a family of such talented, intelligent and successful offspring. Bethany also had a big heart for animals and cared for many dogs throughout her life. Friends and family fondly remember her Jack-Russell Terriers, whom she taught to sing.

Bethany will be missed by her children, Michael (Betsy) Mehr of South Lyon, MI, and Peter (Sara) Mehr of Charleston, SC; brother Ron Runciman of Sacramento, CA. Grandchildren: Jake Mehr, Sam Mehr, Jessica Mehr, Sydney (Ryan Ramirez) Mehr, Spencer (Anna) Mehr, and Addison Mehr; great-grandchild Elin; and many nieces and nephews. 

She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 71 years, Clyde Mehr, and by her twin sister, who passed away at a very young age. 

Bethany’s family and friends will gather at 4 pm on February 9th, 2025 at Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Howell Memorial Chapel in Howell, Michigan. Memorial contributions can be given to the ASPCA. Please leave a message of comfort for Bethany’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign her guestbook at www.borekjennings.com

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