Betty Jean (Mulvey) Ganley's Obituary
Betty Jean (Mulvey) Ganley of Decatur, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on June 23, 2026.
In accordance with her wishes, funeral services will be held at St. Thomas The Apostle Catholic Church, Tuesday, June 30, at 11 am, at 2160 N. Edward St., Decatur IL 62526.
Betty was born on May 10, 1939, in Newton Illinois, to Woodrow Wilson and Helen (Dale) Mulvey. She married Joseph Neil Ganley on May 31, 1958, in Newton Illinois.
She served as a sales associate for 20+ years at Sears, Roebuck and Co., in Decatur.
She was a warm, welcoming, and compassionate woman whose kindness touched everyone she met. Known for her wonderful sense of humor and infectious laugh, she had a remarkable ability to make people feel included, valued, and at home.
A devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, she centered her life around family and cherished every moment spent with those she loved. Her generosity, kind spirit, and unwavering love created lasting memories that will be treasured for generations. She was the heart of family gatherings, bringing people together with her warmth and genuine care for others.
She will be remembered not only for the love she gave so freely, but also for the joy, comfort, and encouragement she shared throughout her life. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the friendships she cultivated, and the countless lives she brightened.
She is loved and remembered by her children: Mary Ann Oberheim, Tim Ganley, Joe (Darla) Ganley, Jim (Katherine) Ganley, Cheryl Valdahl, and Mike (Rhonda) Ganley;
Siblings: Jack (Judy) Mulvey, Paul (Celia) Mulvey, Ron (Joan) Mulvey, Barbara Mitchell, and Sharon Romack;
Sisters-in-law: Coline Ganley, Barbara Ann (Lawrence) Klier, Peg Mulvey, Diane Mulvey, Gerri Brovont, Margie Topper and Elaine Ganley; brothers-in-law: John (Diana) Ganley, Terry (Ann) Ganley;
Sixteen grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and friends, especially her dear card-playing friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brothers Delano, Larry, Mike and Bill Mulvey; sisters Rosemary Mulvey and Sandy Pinter; sister-in-law Barb Mulvey; son-in-law Ted Oberheim; granddaughter Leigh Ann Oberheim, and grandson Chris Oberheim.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 30, 11 am, at St. Thomas The Apostle Catholic Church, 2160 N. Edward St., Decatur IL 62526.
Visitation will be held Monday, June 29, from 5-8 pm, with a prayer service at 4:30 pm at Gracelawn/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N Oakland Ave, Decatur, IL 62526.
Memorials may be made to St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church.
Condolences and memories may be shared online at https://www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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