Betty Sue Elkins

Betty Sue Elkins, 87, of Anna, died Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, at River to River in Anna.

She was born on Nov. 17, 1930, in Marion, Ind., the daughter of Fred and Phyllis Lytton Manus.

She married Billy Donn Elkins on Dec. 5, 1946. He preceded her in death on June 5, 1998.

She was a devoted homemaker while her children were young and then later worked at the former Anna State Hospital, now Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center, in the library for patients. She also helped organize and manage Pastor Chris’s office at Mt. Moriah Lutheran Church in Anna.

Betty Sue was passionate about poetry and reading, and was an avid bridge player, playing in bridge clubs locally and online with partners all over the world.

She cared for many pets over the years, most recently her beloved rescue dog, Sugar. She also collected invalid feeders and acquired over 80. She and Bill loved the Mills Brothers and could dance a lively jitterbug.

Her family is grateful to River to River of Anna, and all the competent caring staff there. Celtic Hospice was also a professional and compassionate support. For several months she had around the clock care from creative, loving and caring women: Jamie Kelly, who tirelessly led the team, Virginia Belle, who added strength, and Michelle Fry, a welcome addition in the last several days.

She is survived by her children, Christy (Ellis) Tuttle of Columbia, Mo., Claudia Lipusch of Milwaukee, Wis., David Elkins of Berryville, Ark., and Danny Elkins of Cape Girardeau; four grandchildren, Michelle (Rick) Petermeyer, Melanie (John) Derry, Christy (Greg) Griffith and Mary (Jason) Essary; five great-grandchildren; and one niece, Jayn Bigler of Anna.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a sister, Pam Bigler; and an infant brother.

A memorial gathering was held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15, at Crain Funeral Home in Anna-Jonesboro.

Private inurnment will take place at a later date.

Memorials can be made to PAWS, to Stinson Library in Anna and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and can be mailed to Crain Funeral Home, 135 W. Vienna St., in Anna, Ill. 62906.

To view the full obituary or to leave an online condolence for the family, visit www.crainsonline.com.

Crain Funeral Home in Anna-Jonesboro is in charge of arrangements.

The Gazette-Democrat

112 Lafayette St.
Anna, Illinois 62906
Office Number: (618) 833-2158
Email: news@annanews.com

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