Betty J. Kelly

Betty Joanne Kelly, age 82, passed away on Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at Oak Lane Nursing and Rehab Center in Stronghurst, Illinois. She was born August 9, 1931 in Burlington, Iowa the daughter of Orville and Margarite (Wheeling) Boyd. Betty attended school and graduated from Stronghurst High School in 1949. Her marriage to Roger W. Kelly was February 28, 1951 in Stronghurst. Betty was a devoted wife and mother. She worked as a home health aid in the area, a cook at the Rozetta Elementary School, Biggsville Grade School, and Union High School. She also worked at Weir's Fruit Farm for over 20 years. In later years, she enjoyed helping, baking, and cooking at the New Crystal Lake Club east of Burlington, Iowa. She was a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star as well as a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Betty enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren. She loved cooking, baking pies, and fishing in her farm pond. Betty was formerly a member of Young's Lake. Betty was also an avid fan of the Chicago Bears. She and her husband enjoyed wintering in Palm Gardens, Texas for over 25 years. Betty is survived by her husband Roger, a daughter; Lynn (John) Anderson of Carman, Illinois, three sons; Scott W. Kelly of Gladstone, Clark "Cork" (Denise) Kelly of Biggsville, and Gene W. Kelly of Palm Springs, California, two sisters; Roxanna Richey of Stronghurst and Margie (Ed) Knirlberger of Mt. Carroll, Illinois. Surviving her are eight grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, one grandson Douglas Aaron, and her step mother, Vera Boyd. Services:A funeral service is planned for Friday, July 19, 2013 at 12:00 noon at the Biggsville United Methodist Church. Her family has planned calling hours beginning at 10:00 am before the service. Interment will follow in the Biggsville Cemetery. A memorial fund has been established for the Oak Lane Nursing and Rehab Center in Stronghurst.