Betty M. Dowell

Betty M. Dowell, age 81, of Springfield, formerly of Athens, passed away on Sunday November 21, 2021 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.

Betty was born February 27, 1940 in Cantrall, Illinois, the daughter of George and Marie (Workman) Nance.

Betty married Bobbie Dowell on May 4, 1957 at Athens Christian Church, Athens, IL by Reverend Short.  He preceded her in death in 2020.

Mourning her passing are two daughters, Connie (Keith) Pillsbury of Petersburg, IL and Beth (Ken) Corkill of Chatham, IL; one son, Bobbie (Lisa) Dowell of Athens, IL; four granddaughters, Logan Dowell of Indianapolis, IN, Kaleigh Pillsbury of Petersburg, IL, Carson Dowell of Athens, IL and Alexa Tisdale of Chatham, IL; her beloved and devoted dog, Peanut; her siblings, Frances (Bobbi) Nicholson of Springfield, IL and Charles A. Nance of Petersburg, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; brothers, George, John, Tom, and Jim; and sisters, Peg, Mary, Rosie, Jean, Alice, Jessie and Louise.

Betty lived in Athens most of her life, where she was a member of the Athens Christian Church.  She and Bob later moved to Springfield where they loved being a part of their apartment community.  Betty especially enjoyed the potlucks and coffee time there, as well as her weekly bible study group.

Betty’s favorite pastime was decorating her house.  She loved to be the first one in the north-end of Athens to have her Christmas decor displayed, and she thoroughly enjoyed decorating for multiple holidays all at the same time.

Her many collections included figurines of cardinals, Santas, ducks, geese, and salt and pepper shakers.  She loved watching QVC and Hallmark movies and putting together puzzles, but she mostly loved being with Peanut, her family, neighbors, and friends.

She was an excellent caregiver for her husband for many years, providing him with special care and delicious home-cooked meals.  She will be so happy to be reunited with her husband, Bob, but life will not be the same for her family and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the family for a special donation to Springfield Fire Station 9, who took such special care of Bob and Betty or to American Heart Association.

Private services for all family members will be held.  Rev. Ken Gennicks will be officiating.

Burial will be held at Joel Hall Cemetery in Athens, IL.

Mott & Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. On-line condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com.