Betty Kresin is the grandmother of renowned rapper Eminem. She is Debbie Mathers‘ mother, Eminem’s mom. Betty was an influential figure in Eminem’s early life. She witnessed most of the hardship he experienced as a kid.
Quick Facts About Betty Kresin
| Full Name | Betty Kresin |
| Birthdate | N/A |
| Occupation | Homemaker / Family caregiver (no public professional career known) |
| Husband/Wife | Married three times: Bob Nelson, Ron Gilpin, and a third unnamed husband |
| Education | N/A |
| Age | N/A |
| Parents | Not Known |
| Grandchildren | Eminem, Nathan Mathers, Korey Nelson, Michael Mathers |
| Children | Six children: Debbie Mathers (Eminem’s mom), Todd Nelson, Steven Nelson, Betti Schmitt, Ronnie Polkingharn, and one more unnamed |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
| Relation to Eminem | Maternal grandmother |
Her Early Life
Betty experienced a difficult childhood. She lived with her grandmother, who was an alcoholic. Betty always felt unwanted and unloved. She quickly changed her life when she married when she was only 14 years old.
Betty’s Marriages and Children
Betty had three husbands. She had six children from these marriages.
Her first husband was Bob Nelson. They had three children: Debbie (Eminem’s mom), Todd, and Steven. Bob was verbally abusive. The marriage ended in separation.
Her second husband was Ron Gilpin. He was an alcoholic and abusive. Betty had two more children with him, including a daughter named Betti Schmitt, who is Eminem’s aunt.
Her third marriage saw her youngest son, Ronnie Polkingharn. Ronnie was extremely close to Eminem. Unfortunately, he took his own life in 1991. This had a profound impact on both Betty and Eminem.
Life in Detroit
Eminem did not always live with his mother. Sometimes he stayed with Betty. She noticed how difficult his life was when growing up in Detroit. He suffered from bullying and poverty. According to one tale, Betty described how kids stole Eminem’s shoes during a snowstorm once. She realized how difficult life was for him.
Their Relationship
Betty and Eminem did not have a good relationship. She was offended when Eminem failed to attend Ronnie’s funeral. She was also angered when Eminem used Ronnie’s voice in a song without consulting her.
But things improved with time. In 2002, Betty and Eminem reconciled. Betty now supports him and is proud of his achievement. She always talks about how far he has come.
Her Book About Their Life
Betty also authored a book titled “The Tie That Binds.” Her book narrates the story of her family. She writes of her difficult history, her children, and her grandson Eminem. Her book presents tales of suffering, love, and hope. People needed to know where Eminem came from and what he experienced.
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A Strong and Honest Woman
Betty Kresin has survived much strife. She was a young bride, a mother of six children, and a bearer of witness to family suffering. She endured abuse, poverty, and heartache. Yet she also demonstrated strength. She stayed with Eminem even in difficult times. She didn’t abandon her family.
Why She Matters
Betty is not only Eminem’s grandmother. She is a large part of his history. She witnessed his youth and assisted in raising him. She is familiar with the reality behind the fame. Her life teaches us how hard times can make hard people.
