Joel Betts, 77 of Myakka Florida, beloved husband and best friend of Marilyn Funderburk Betts for fifty-four years, passed away peacefully surrounded by the ones he loved and lived for on March 5, 2015. As a child he spent his youth hunting and exploring the wilderness of Florida. After spending 4 years in the US Navy Joel went on to become Assistant Director and chief helicopter pilot for Manatee County Mosquito Control. Joel was a skilled carpenter and builder, constructing the house that he and Marilyn have lived in for the past 15 years. Joel was an artist, musician, and thoughtful storyteller, which led him to author a great western novel that he took great pride in. Another of Joel's many talents led him to be featured in Mechanix Illustrated for developing an amphibious all-terrain vehicle that would navigate the marsh lands of Florida. Although Joel's talents were many, his greatest accomplishment was how he lived as a husband, father and wise mentor not only to his family but to all he came to know and love. Joel is survived by his beautiful wife Marilyn Funderburk Betts, daughter Mischelle Gray and son in-law Chris Gray, son Troy Betts and daughter in-law Carrie Betts, grandchildren Candace Wiant and husband Donald Wiant, Sarah Owen and partner James Jones, Emily Owen, Jeremy Gray and wife Laura and Christopher Gray, Trinity Betts, Joel Betts II and great granddaughter Olivia Owen, brother Dickey Betts and wife Donna Betts, sister Pam Armstrong and husband Bud Armstrong, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Rest in the arms of our loving Savior Papa, we love you and you will always be with us. We are so thankful for your life well lived. In lieu of flowers please consider your favorite charity . A graveside service will be held on Mon. Mar. 9, 2015 at 12:30 pm at Old Myakka Cemetery, 1620 Myakka Rd., Sarasota, FL 34240.