Betty Sue Elkins

ANNA, Ill. -- Betty Sue Elkins, 87, of Anna passed away Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, at River to River in Anna.

She was born Nov. 17, 1930, in Marion, Indiana, the daughter of Fred and Phyllis Lytton Manus. She married Billy Donn Elkins on Dec. 15, 1946. He preceded her in death June 5, 1998.

Betty Sue was a devoted homemaker while her children were young and then later worked at Choate State Hospital in the library for patients. She also helped organize and manage Pastor Chris' office at Mount Moriah Lutheran Church.

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.

Betty Sue's family is eternally grateful to River to River of Anna, and all the competent, caring staff there. Celtic Hospice also provided professional and compassionate support. For several months, she had around-the-clock care from amazingly 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.

Betty Sue is survived by her children, Christy (Ellis) Tuttle of Columbia, Missouri, Claudia Lipusch of Milwaukee, David Elkins of Berryville, Arkansas, 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 a niece, Jayn Bigler of Anna.

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

A memorial gathering will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday at Crain Funeral Home in Anna. Private inurnment will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be made to PAWS, Stinson Library and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or donations can be mailed to Crain Funeral Home, 135 West Vienna St., Anna, IL 62906.

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