Bettie Jean "B.J." Whitaker

Bettie Jean “B.J.” Whitaker was born on April 25, 1960, to Cornelius and Lois Edwards. She grew up in Sarasota, Florida, alongside her older brother, Larry, and sister, Cathy, the youngest of the three by eight years. During part of her high school years, she lived with her parents in California before returning to Florida to live with her sister in Ocala, where she graduated from Forest High School.

Not long after graduation, Bettie met the love of her life, Michael Whitaker, and the two were married. Together they started a family, welcoming their first child in 1981. Throughout the early years of their marriage, Bettie worked in the service industry as a waitress and bartender, where her warmth, quick wit, and gift for making people feel welcome naturally shone.

In 1995, Bettie and Mike realized a longtime dream by purchasing four acres and a mobile home on the southwest side of Ocala, embracing a quieter, more rural life. She loved country living—gardening, caring for many animals, and creating a home where family and friends always felt welcome. Soon after moving, a neighbor invited them to attend a local church. That simple invitation changed the course of their lives, as Bettie, Mike, and the kids all came to faith in Jesus Christ and devoted themselves to following Him.

Unafraid to take a leap of faith, in 2014, Bettie left the service industry to pursue another dream—opening SaraFay Farms Gluten-Free Bakery. Through hard work, creativity, and determination, she built a successful business that served the community for many years.
In 2023, Bettie was diagnosed with Stage IV cancer, forcing her to close the bakery she had poured so much of herself into so that she could focus on treatment. She faced her illness with remarkable courage, sustained by her faith and the love of her family. After a three-year battle, she entered the presence of her Savior on June 23, 2026, surrounded by those she loved most. During her final weeks, she was faithfully cared for by her daughter, sister, and niece, whose constant love and devotion were a tremendous comfort.

Bettie is survived by her husband of 45 years, Mike Whitaker Sr.; her sons, Mike
Whitaker Jr. (Chrissy, Novel, and Corrie) and Jeff Whitaker; her daughter, Courtney Hayes (Brian, Nolan, Olivia, and Nora); her brother, Larry; her sister, Cathy; and many extended family members and dear friends who will deeply miss her.

Bettie will be remembered for her generous heart, love of family, dogs, and gardening, unwavering perseverance, entrepreneurial spirit, and faith in Christ. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, hospitality, and love that will continue to bless her family for generations to come.