Betty Gail (Hollenbeck) Graham

Betty Gail (Hollenbeck) Graham, 93, of Melrose, IL, passed away surrounded by her family in the comfort of her home at 8:45 p.m. on Monday, November 27, 2023. She was born on March 20, 1930, in rural Clark County to Grant and Marie (Heleine) Hollenbeck, both of whom preceded her in death. In her youth, she developed a strong work ethic working around the farm. This love of farming and family followed her throughout her life. On May 7th, 1947, she married the love of her life, Harold "Farmer" Graham. Together, they farmed for more than 65 years, all while raising three children.

Betty was very strong in her faith, and was a devoted member of Island Grove Baptist Church outside Martinsville, IL. She always had a green thumb and talent for gardening. She had a love for hummingbirds, putting out at least 8 hummingbird feeders in the summer months, twice a day. She loved spending time with friends and family; especially with playing cards, chinese checkers, and square-dancing. She was an avid crafter; especially when it came to quilting, sewing, embroidering, and crocheting gifts for her loved ones. Betty opened her heart to everyone, fostering several children over the years.

Betty was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, receiving an Illinois Pioneer Certificate for being a descendant of an original settler of Illinois. She was also a member of the Red Hats in Florida.

Betty was an avid traveler that visited all over North America; from Alaska to the Florida Keys, from Nova Scotia to Mexico. Betty also traveled the world, visiting Scotland, Ireland, and Australia. Her favorite place to travel to was "Melrose South" in Florida for many years during the winters.

Outside of the farm, Betty worked at TRW, Coil Sales, and at Burnsides as a CNA before retirement.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and siblings Wanda (Quimby) Norton, Vernon (Earline) Hollenbeck, and Nina (James) Blankenbeker.

She is survived by three children and their spouses: Steve and Sandy Graham (Pontiac, IL), Linda and Larry Crabtree (West Union, IL), and Darrell and Marla Graham (Oblong, IL); eight grandchildren and their spouses: Matt (Jennifer) Graham, Chad (Janelle) Graham, Amy (Tommy) Fazio, Nicole (Dre) Graham, Rhonda (Jon) Ledermann, Cara (Zack) Wheeler, Dara Graham (Jason Selby), and Mikaila Graham; 15 great-grandchildren: Peyton & Reagan Graham, Abigail & Madilyn Graham, Isabella & Maria Fazio, Kelsey & Kinley Ledermann, Karissa (Josh) Decker & Blake Girdner, & Winston, Owen, Dexter, Aiden, and Piper Potts; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and treasured friends.

A time of public visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 2nd, at the Island Grove Baptist Church (8596 N 1000th St Martinsville, IL 62442). A private family memorial service will immediately follow, and burial will take place in the Ohio Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to either the "Island Grove Baptist Church" or "Ohio Cemetery". Memorial envelopes will be available at the church. The Prust-Hosch Funeral Home in West Union is in charge of arrangements.