Thank you all for your kind words and memories; they are greatly appreciated.

I have many fond memories of Aunt Betty.  I spent a lot of wonderful time with her and Uncle Bill.  She was always so warm and loving to me.  She also gave me a beautiful bridal shower.  She was truly a beautiful soul.  She will be fondly remembered and missed.

The movie, "Thelma &  Louise" vs. Mom and I::
Stars:
TL:  Susan Sarandon (Louise) and Gena Davis (Thelma)
US:  Mom & Todd (top billing has to go to mom)
Timeline
TL:  a weekend fishing trip
US:  a day trip South somewhere to be determined
Automobiles:
TL:  a classic Ford Thunderbird convertible
US:  a late model BMW SUV
TL:  Soundtrack:  Classic Songs of the 60's, 70's  &, 80's 
US:  Soundtrack - KMOX
TL:  Lots of Police - Police car chasing - Gun Shots
US:  Lots of Police - Police directing traffic - Snap-N-Pops
Other cast members:
TL:   Brad Pitt - 4th year as an actor, launched his career
US:  The Sun

The night before I called her and said what are your plans for tomorrow,  I listened and then I said:   Cancel them,  and go with me. Knowing her as we all do, she wanted to go but would never intrude.  She said no, you go on, have fun with your friends and well talk later. My reply was simple"  My friends have other plans, I'm going solo. and you're going, I'll be at your place at 9am.  She hesitated a bit and I kept urging her to go.  Finally, she said yes.  

The next day was  8/21/17. The goal was to get to Chester Illinois.   Backroad turns to the left, to the right, 2, 3 & 4 way stop signs,  Where are we.  Actually we were almost to Red Bud, and their party had started.  Just past the turn to head to Chester, it began to black up..   Dang.  Regrouping in a parking lot, we heard music close by, looked at the map, and decided its plan B.   We headed to the town park.with a hospital and the Jr. Collage nearby.  Handicap placard flashed, parked, chairs up in shade, good music that we both knew.  It was a party like no other - to watch to a total solar eclipse.  It was simple but fun, friendly, and festive.  Hamburger at a simple restaurant afterward and the drive home. She knew everyone at dinner was jealous of her ear-to-ear grin  It was the greatest, best trip and regrettably our last one  










So sad to hear about Betty.  As one of Betty’s many cousins, I remember all of the great times we had at family gatherings.  As a young child, I also was privileged to be in Betty’s wedding.  Living in Florida I did not get to her often, but enjoyed seeing her during visits.

My dear cousins, please accept my deepest sympathies. In the last few days I have recalled my memories as a child with her as my aunt. I am certain you a blessed with many good memories.
Mike

Really loved Betty, her Mom, Irene, was my Godmother,  Many fond memories of family times together.  We have lost a generation of some wonderful women in our lives.

Hospice of Southern Illinois

Blessed Sacrament Grade School

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Betty Van de Water

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Betty A. (McAdoo) Van de Water

January 27, 1928 – August 3, 2020

Valhalla-Gaerdner-Holten Funeral Home & Valhalla Gardens

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