James Allan “Jim-Pop-Tadpole” Betts, 59, died Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2008, at his residence in Lake Helen, Fla., of lung cancer.

His remains were cremated.

He was a long time resident of Decatur County, Ga.

He served the U.S. Army in Vietnam as a refrigeration mechanic. He had a degree in welding and small engine repair. He was a former iron worker for Mangum and Ironwood Construction companies. He was also a motocross racer in the late 1970s and early ’80s.

Survivors include his mother, Janice Nobles of Island Grove, Fla.; two brothers, Michael Betts of Andalusia, Ala., and Dwayne Betts of Loxahatchee, Fla.; a daughter, Bonnie Trammell of Lake Helen, Fla.; four grandchildren, Justin Spooner of Bainbridge, Ga., Garrett Spooner, Sommer Trammell and Bailey Trammell, all of Lake Helen.

At Mr. Betts’ request, a covered dish visitation service will be held at the Train Depot in Climax, Ga., on Saturday, Nov. 15, at 1 p.m. Family and friends are encouraged to attend.

Memorial donations may be made to Franklin Baptist Church, the Rev. Gwan Garrison, 916 Hutchinson Ferry Road, Bainbridge, GA 39819.