Betty Lou Findlay

Betty Lou Findlay, age 79, at rest on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Betty is survived by her loving husband, LaVerne Howard Findlay Jr.; children, Heaven (Matt Hill) Findlay, Stacy Shewmake, Kaleb Findlay, Kenneth Shewmake and Bobby (Valerie) Findlay; grandchildren, Amber Noonan, Misti Shepherd, Kayley Shewmake, Bubba (James) Shewmake III, Josey Ray Wells, Kenny Shewmake, Kane Shewmake and Kennedy Shewmake; great-grandchildren, Emily Noonan, Rylee Squellati, Rhyett Macaluso, Aurora Hill, Lily Findlay, Savanna Findlay, Kelly Sandstrom, Jakob Sandstrom, Hunter Shepherd, Noah Shepherd, Kinley Armstrong and Adalynn Shewmake; daughter-in-law, Kristie Shewmake; several nieces, nephews and cousins; as well as special friends, Irene, Barb, Bonnie, Sandy and Sue.

Preceded in death by her children, Kelly Renee Shewmake, James Robert Shewmake Jr. and James Phillip Shewmake; parents, Phillip and Ruby Palmer; sister, Bingo Kozel; brothers, Roy Palmer, Andrew “Hound Dog” Palmer, Larry “Peewee” Palmer; and great-grandson, Markie Noonan.

Betty had a heart of pure gold, the kind that made everyone around her feel seen, heard, and cared for. She dedicated her life to helping others, always offering a hand, a smile, or a kind word when it was needed most. Her selflessness and sincerity were the foundation of the many lasting relationships she built throughout her life.

A proud and loving mother and grandmother, Betty Lou devoted her life to raising her children and supporting her grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. Her family was her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into nurturing and guiding them.

She began her career as a bus driver and later became a Lieutenant at the Dresden Nuclear Plant prior to retiring from Mobile Refinery.

Her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit came to life when she opened "A New Look" salon in Wilmington, where she shared her gifts as a talented cosmetologist and permanent makeup artist. Her clients knew they were in good hands — not just for her skill, but for the kindness and care she brought into every appointment.

Outside of work and family, Betty Lou found joy in sewing, creating beautiful pieces with love and patience, and in playing pool, where her competitive spirit and laughter often lit up the room.

Betty will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of her family, friends, and community.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at the Wilmington Moose, 32050 W River Rd, Wilmington, IL 60481 beginning at 3:00 p.m.