"End of the Road Party" For "Doc" Friday at The Rock House

[ThePeoplesReport er]

By TERESA BREWER
The first day of 2009 was the last day for 56 year old Steven "Doc" Betts, who passed away at his home in Rockaway Beach at approximately 11:30 a.m.
"Doc" was a Vietnam Veteran, discharged with honor,(a medic, which is how he got the nickname "Doc"), held a masters degree in fine arts which he earned from School of the Ozarks. He was a professor, a beloved blues artist, writer, song writer, harmonica player, artist, scupture, carpenter, father, grandfather and friend to many.
He was one of the best blues guitarists and songwriters in the southwest Missouri region. His 2001 release of his album with his band "The Committee" entitled "Ice Cold Blues", features one of his self portraits in abstract, on the cover and his rocking blues songs leave you feeling his soul as he put what was in his heart to music that implores you to move to it's beat while swaying to his lyrical stories.
He will be deeply missed by all who loved him.
On his birthday, January 16th 2008, "Doc's" only surviving daughter Brooke Betts, will be hosting his "End of the Road Party", in memorial to her father. She invites all his friends, fellow musicians, recording artists, students and colleagues to attend the memorial at the Rock House in Reeds Spring from 6-11p.m., to share stories, memories, music in celebration and honor to his life.
Betts will be buried with full honors and military salute on January 30th at the Veterans Memorial Cemetary in Ozark, MO, in honor of his dedication and service to his country during the Vietnam war.
For more information contact Brooke Betts or call Jeanette at the Rock House in Reeds Spring.

[Pat from MN]

Doc will be deeply missed. I loved coming to Rockaway Beach to see him. There is only one Doc and I am glad I "was along for the ride".

[Peoples Reporter]

Pat, Well said...Doc loved that John Mayall tune and played it often in his home. Wish he was there with me in STL when I saw John perform all his greats including "Just Along for the Ride," at the Big Muddy Festival last year.

If anyone knows how to contact Doc's next door neighbor Shasta and her husband, who own the vacation home next to Doc's place, please let her know.

[peanut_gallery]

Doc frequented my place of employment often. I was always glad to see him. He was such a highly intelligent man, and I enjoyed talking to him very much. He was a very kind hearted man, would open his heart and home to anyone in need. He was the type that wanted to make a difference in people's lives. I kept telling him "Doc, you can't save them all"
I am going to miss him terribly...

[Rita Stepps]

So sorry to hear of the passing of "Doc" . A great Blues man. Glad he gave me one of his CD's. Can anyone tell me what happened to Steve? Have looked in news paper. thank you

[ThePeoplesReport er]

It's currently under investigation.

[ThePeoplesReport er]

Rita, did you find anything in the papers?

[ThePeoplesReport er]

I was misinformed of the time of death, therefore reported it incorrectly. The time was after 1:29 pm. The exact time is yet to be determined.

[CINDY M1]

has anyone ever found out what actually occurred and why.

[anonymous]

Doc committed suicide after being used, abused, lied to, lied about, robbed and more by one of the local meth heads named Misty. She broke his heart over and over. She ruined his life. He tried to "save" her. His suicide note told all.

[Pat from MN]

Is that a crime in Missouri? Lying, cheating and stealing is not a legal crime in Minnesota but we do have justice for her kind. I hope someone steps up!

[CINDY M1]

he didnt seem like the type to let someone like that get to him like that. i always thought that he was more guarded with his emotions than that. very sorry to hear that. i just find that really shocking.

[anonymous]

Stealing IS a crime in Missouri. Don't know if she will or has been charged for robbing his bank account, stealing his music, guitar, etc.