Betty Bickerstaff

Betty Lee Bickerstaff passed away peacefully in the early evening on August 25, 2026 at McLean County nursing home. She left this world with the love of her life, John, by her side. She now rests in the gentle embrace of God.

Her father Bernhard Axel Anderson and mother Betty Ruth Wilkerson preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband John, 3 sons Mark Alan (Andrea) of Cary, North Carolina, John Michael of Knoxville, Tennessee, Matthew Lee, 7 grandchildren Sydney Bickerstaff (Kelley's Island, Ohio), Kahlie Campbell (Byron) of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, Savannah Craft {RJ) of Newton, Kansas, Phoenix (Air Force), Thomas, Tristan, and Taylor of Cary North Carolina. 2 great grandchildren Ariana and Elijah Campbell of Lakewood Ranch, Florida.

Betty was born July 12, 1949 in Galveston, Texas. She attended school in Hitchcock, Texas before moving to Waco. Betty and John met in high school as members of the Richfield High School marching and concert band. They started dating in their senior year in 1967. Betty and John were married on July 12, 1969, embarking on a beautiful journey together. Their first son arrived in October 1971. After John graduated from Baylor, he accepted a job offer from State Farm Life Insurance Company and the family moved to Bloomington, Illinois in September, 1972. They welcomed two more son's in October 1974 and in June 1976.

Betty graduated from Richfield High School. After attending business college after high school she worked at Texas Life Insurance Company in Waco, Texas . However, her true calling was to be a devoted wife and mother, a role she embraced wholeheartedly following the birth of her first son.

Betty dedicated herself to service in many forms. She was deeply involved in Boy Scouts, where she served as a Cub Scout Den Leader, for all three of their sons. Betty was part of a team that trained numerous men and women through training sessions and monthly roundtable meetings. She also participated in the Women's Scouter Lore group. Betty was awarded the prestigious Silver Beaver in 1993 for her 25 years of dedicated service. Her contributions to the scouting community were immeasurable, and she left a lasting impact.

Betty became a member of Morningstar United Methodist Church after it was founded. Betty served as board member for several years and was also a member of the choir. Her faith was an integral part of her life, and she found immense joy and solace within her church community.

After John retired in 2006, Betty and her beloved took her late father's advice to travel. They loaded up their car and began traveling frequently to different parts of the United States, creating cherished memories. Their favorites places to spend time was North Myrtle Beach, Orlando/Kissimmee, Pompano Beach, and Branson.
Betty had an infectious laugh; her smile would light up the room. She had a big love of the Dallas Cowboys and every time they played you could hear her shout "Go Cowboys!". She cherished the holidays, the moments to celebrate birthdays and achievements of her loved ones. She had such love for her family, her greatest love with her husband John.

There will be a celebration of life for Betty on September 19, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Morningstar United Methodist Church, 3714 Fort Jesse Rd, Normal, IL 61761. This will be followed by a luncheon after the ceremony. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made in her name to Morningstar United Methodist Church or a charity of your choice.

John discovered heartfelt messages from Betty after her passing, written on small pieces of paper and tucked away in her purse. These tender words are a testament to her love and wisdom: "I am alive because of you. There is joy in the presence of the Angels of God. For as long as we live, because you were a part of us, we will always remember you. Happy Birthday with all of my love for you. I will love you always. Some people make the world more special just by being in it. I have learned that it is not what I have in my life but who I have in my life that counts."

Betty Lee Bickerstaff made the world a better place simply by being a part of it. Her enduring legacy of love, laughter, and service will forever remain in our hearts.