Bette Harlow

Bette June Harlow, 79, of Pana passed away Monday, April 7, 2025 in her daughter’s home with her children by her side. She was born September 9, 1945 in Pana to the late Huber Koontz, Jr. & Angeline M. (Maida) Koontz. Bette married James “Pete” Harlow on July 3, 1999 in Pana, IL and he preceded her in death on February 5, 2016.
Bette graduated from Pana High School in 1963. She worked in different positions throughout her life, including farming with Sandra & Scott’s father and working for People’s Bank & Trust in Pana and County Market, as well as serving as the Deputy Circuit Clerk in Christian County. Bette was a member of the Pana Eagles, Pana VFW and Pana Moose. She enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, reading, traveling, playing cards and was an avid Cubs fan and Illini Men’s Basketball. Bette was loyal, generous, caring and empathetic to everyone around her. She was a good friend and most importantly, a great mom; her children always came first.
Bette is survived by her children: Sandra Permentier, Normal, IL & Scott Permentier , Bradenton, FL; brother, David (Allison) Koontz, Springfield, IL; nieces & nephews: Mackenzie (Nathan) Montgomery, Springfield, IL; Rory Koontz (Karin Winters), Chicago, IL; Delaney (Ryan) Patton, Springfield, IL; Quinn Koontz (Andrew), Springfield, IL; great nephews & nieces: Owen & Kade Montgomery & Nora & Madison Patton; stepson, Jim “Jamie” (Cindy) Harlow, Pace, FL; several step grandchildren and great grandchildren, including Alexis Harlow and her daughters and special friend, Deanna Littell, Goodfield, IL. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, Joseph Koontz.
Funeral mass for Bette will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025 in St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Pana at 11:00 a.m. with Father Joseph Havrilka officiating. Burial will be in Rosemond Grove Cemetery, Rosamond. Visitation will be Thursday, April 10, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in McCracken-Dean Funeral Home followed by Eagles rites at 7:00 p.m.
Memorials in Bette’s honor may be made to Sacred Heart School and will be accepted by McCracken-Dean Funeral Home who is assisting the family.