Betty D. Fenton

Betty D. Fenton passed into eternal rest November 9, 2024 at Ascension Living St. Joseph in Freeport. She was born in Freeport, IL to Jesse V. and Hazel (Woods) Weckerly on July 29, 1930, joining her older siblings Robert, Naomi, Jeanette, Bradley, Eileen, Vita, and Lee. Betty graduated from Freeport High School in 1948. She met the love of her life, Frank E. Fenton, at a church social event, and they were married September 18, 1948, at Evangelical United Brethren Church.

Betty relished her role as mom to her three sons, encouraging their activities, and welcoming their friends into her home. With her children growing up, Betty began her career, starting in the office at Empire Elementary School and ending her working years at Highland Community College with a key role in Human Resources.

Betty was a long-term member of Park Hills Evangelical Free Church and was active in many of its programs and ministries. Her faith was a defining characteristic of her life. She delighted in her work in the nursery and Sunday School, where she nurtured and cared for generations of children. Betty was best known for her ministry as a prayer warrior. She raised beautiful roses, she loved a good auction, and she enjoyed setting a beautiful table for entertaining friends and family. Her time with her sisters was especially precious to her, and she was the partner you wanted to have in any euchre game.

As her family grew to include grandchildren, she embraced the role, and proved to be a fun-loving, active grandma who was a loving part of their lives. She especially loved celebrating holidays with her family, sharing traditions and making each family member’s favorite dish.

Betty is survived by her sons Daryl (Sandra), Scott (Becky), and Kevin (Susan), as well as grandchildren Joshua (Ray Mansfield), Amanda (Jacob Welbourne), Andrew (Jen), and Erin (Dave Nelson); great-grandchildren Jacob (Carissa), Ethan, Alana, and Miles; beloved nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, husband Frank, and her siblings.

The family is grateful for the loving care given to Betty by the staffs at Winn Prairie Assisted Living and Ascension Living St. Joseph.

A memorial service will be held at Park Hills Church on Saturday, November 23, 2024,10:00 am and will be followed by a luncheon at the church. The family will hold a private graveside service at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be directed to Park Hills Church or Ascension Living St. Joseph in Freeport.