Betty B. Melnik's Obituary
Betty B. Melnik, 82, of Decatur, passed away July 16, 2023.
Betty was born in Decatur, Illinois on August 27, 1940, the daughter of James Russell Beasley and Mabel Edith Dunaway. Betty is preceded in death by her parents, brother James R. Beasley and loving husband I. Buddy Melnik.
Betty B. Melnik was a force of nature and her loss is one of great magnitude for both the world and her family. In her was lost the matriarch of a family, a loving mother, and the best grandmother one could possibly imagine. She was the quintessential picture of class, self-accomplishment, and fortitude. She was an avid and awarded golfer, a savvy business woman, poised beauty, and intellect that loved few things more than a good historical autobiography and a mystery! She embodied so many attributes and was so many things to everyone in her family, the respect and admiration felt for her is immeasurable. She impacted the lives of everyone in her midst and challenged them to be the best versions of themselves. She had a unique way of making you feel like the most important person in existence when her attention fell upon you. There will never be a day her energy won’t be missed but she will always be kept alive in the rumination and recounting of our memories to the present and future generations. Whether you ever had the pleasure of her acquaintance or you didn't, you can know that with her passing the world has lost a generational icon, that can never be replaced.
Betty is survived by her daughters: Sherry and husband Jack Sievers, LeeAnn Lamberto, Leslie Hilliard, Lori and husband Andrew Hollingsworth; grandchildren Rachel Doane, Wesley Sievers, Chelsea Sievers, Jack Sievers, Samantha Sievers, Lucas Hollingsworth, and Noah Hollingsworth; several great-grandchildren; and her beloved dogs Frankie and Chester.
Condolences may be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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