Betty E. Ritz

Betty Elaine Ritz, 85, of Springfield, passed away on Friday, March 8, 2013, at Memorial Medical Center. Betty was born on September 15, 1927, in Modesto, IL, the daughter of Coy and Edna (Sims) Madison.

Betty was employed by Dr. Gwendolyn White and Springfield Clinic. During her leisure time she enjoyed music, dancing, and spending time outside with her family, friends, and neighbors.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Earl Ritz Jr; her parents; her son David L. Spencer; two sisters, Virginia Madison and Helen Austin and two brothers, Stanley and Lester Madison.

Surviving Betty are four daughters, Deanna L. Martin (David) of Springfield; Deborah L. Passavage (Doug) of Springfield; Dawn L. Johnson (Jimmy) of Roses, Spain; Dixie L. Spencer (Patty) of Winter Haven, FL eight grandchildren; Brian Martin (Roxanne); Jeremy Martin (Teresa); Jeni and Jackie Passavage, and Jessica, Valerie, and Ashley Gasparini; and Joe Etherton (Karen) of Austin, TX; and five great-grandchildren, Lauren Martin, Gavin Martin, and Noah Martin; and Jack and Bobby Etherton. She is also survived by several step-children and her good friend and neighbor, Larry Kramer.

In honor of Betty's wishes, there will be no funeral service or visitation. A private family gathering will take place prior to burial at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials in her name may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Please visit the online "Life Rememberd Story" at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com