Betty "Betty Jean" J. Runkle

Betty J. Runkle 'Betty Jean' 80, of Freeport, passed away, into the arms of her Savior Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2013. Born November 8, 1932, in Freeport, Illinois to Raymond and Alta (Fryer) McLain. Betty married Robert Runkle on June 26, 1960. Mr. Runkle died on September 16, 2007. Faithful member of First Baptist Church. When the church doors were open she would be there. Survivors include her brother, Dean (Carol) Fryer of Florida; sister-in-law, Phyllis McLain and several nieces and nephews; daughters; Cathy (Laverne) Klentz of Eufala, Alabama and Alta (Mike) Ryan of Rockford; grandchildren, Michelle (Bill) Rollins and James Klentz of Alabama, Christine (Brian) Beck of McCordsville, Indiana and Michael R. (Annie) Ryan of Machesney Park. Also surviving are great-grandchildren, Caleb, Elizabeth, Isabelle Rebekah, Katelyn, Thomas, Joshua and Oliver. Betty worked as a telephone operator then at Burgess Battery and retired from Micro Switch were she soldered minute delicate switches for years. In her retirement she worked at Wal-Mart and kept herself busy with needlework of all sorts. She volunteered at Stephenson Nursing Center for many years helping in activities. She loved the Lord and enjoyed singing and a good cup of coffee. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Alta and Raymond McLain; brother, Norman; and husband, Robert L. Runkle. The family wishes to thank the entire staff at Stephenson Nursing Center for those who have lovingly cared for her over the past couple years. Most especially we would like to thank the following staff on Willows the Alzheimer'™s unit-Annette, Brianna, Aretha, Cheyenne, Scott, Brett and Kim. The staff on Birchwood were angels and took such loving care of her in her last days and we are deeply touched by their compassion. We would also like to thank FHN Hospice nurses Jeannie and Anne. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 4, at First Baptist Church, Pastor Steve Rios will officiate. Visitation will be Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Burke Tubbs Funeral Home. There will also be a visitation form 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at the Church on Thursday. Burial will be in Grandview Cemetery. Memorial may be made out to SNC Activities Department or in Betty'™s memory. Please sign the guestbook at www.burketubbs.com.