Betty Louise Whitehurst, 87, of Peoria passed away at 4:44 pm Monday October 3, 2016 at OSF Richard L Owens Hospice Home with her family by her side. She was born March 16, 1929 in Peoria the daughter of Alva and Minnie Reffett Neuman. She married Gene Whitehurst on February 27, 1948. Betty is survived by her husband of 68 years; two sons, Nelson E. (Julie) Whitehurst of Edwards, and David R. (Edna-deceased) Whitehurst of Dunlap; two daughters, Sandra L. (Bruce E. ) Edstrand of Hawthorn Woods, and Shellie A. (Robert D) Wilkes of Peoria; eight grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, and one daughter, Susan Hope Whitehurst. Betty was very proud of the fact that she returned to College completing her Nursing Degree in 1978. After working with the American Red Cross Blood Mobile, Betty found her true passion; that of a Public Health Nurse for the Peoria City/ County Health Department. She retired in 1994 knowing she had provided much needed healthcare to countless people across Peoria County. Betty took tremendous pride in supporting her husband, along with his partner Karol Ponicsan, grow their successful business, P&W Builders. She could frequently be seen accompanying Gene on new home appointments and model open houses. Betty had many interests including her Bunco Club with her friends and being a Bradley Basketball fan for over 60 years. She and Gene loved to travel. Their many trips included destinations near and far. Their favorites were their trips to China and the cruise of a lifetime, “Around the World in 80 Days” on the maiden voyage of the Queen Mary II. Those who knew Betty would tell you her number one priority was her family. They could all count on a wonderful home cooked meal and family time every Sunday for years. She was confirmed at First English Lutheran Church. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am Friday October 7, 2016 at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel. Visitation will be Thursday Evening from 5-7 pm also at the chapel. Sister Geraldine Kemper will officiate. Burial will be in Parkview Cemetery. Memorials may be made to American Heart Association, The Cancer Society, or OSF Richard L Owens Hospice Home. To view Betty's memorial page or to leave an online condolence please go to www.davison-fulton.com.
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