Bette Eloise Clemens

Bette Eloise Clemens, a beloved sister, aunt, and friend, peacefully passed away on August 29 2024, in Falls Church, Virginia, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on September 26, 1951, in Dearborn, Michigan, Bette lived a life full of learning, compassion, and quiet strength, touching the hearts of those she encountered.

Bette's education began at Marian High School in Bloomfield Hills, where her curiosity and intellect flourished. She graduated from Oakland University in 1975 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chinese, demonstrating her profound love for language and culture. Bette's passion for the Chinese language led her on an incredible adventure, as she moved to Taiwan for further studies with her dear friend, Anne. Living in Taiwan for four years, she immersed herself in the language and culture, achieving scholarly feats that few could match. Notably, she spent four years alone reading the entire Mengzi, a significant fourth-century BCE text on Confucian philosophy, a testament to her unwavering determination and intellect.

Bette returned to the United States, where her expertise and dedication earned her an esteemed government job. For nearly four decades, she translated Chinese-language articles on pressing topics such as the environment and the economy. She served her role with grace and integrity, retiring in 2021, having devoted herself both professionally and personally.

Outside of her career, Bette found joy in simple pleasures. She was an avid reader, a passionate cook who loved collecting recipes, and she enjoyed walking around the National Mall and visiting the National Zoo, always enchanted by the red pandas. Her beautiful blue eyes spoke volumes of her kind spirit, silently conveying acceptance, empathy, and love to those around her.

Bette is survived by her loving family: her brothers, William and Raymond Clemens, along with her sisters-in-law, Nancy and Joyce Clemens. She is cherished by her nieces and nephews: Claudia, Eric M., Yvonne, and Eric C. Clemens. She leaves behind dear friends, including Anne Behnke-Kinney, John Behnke, and Zoe Kinney.

As we remember Bette, we celebrate a life that was dedicated to learning and kindness.