Betty Roslyn McAlhaney died June 28, 2024 in Mansfield, Texas at the age of 82. Betty was born August 4,1941 in Nevada, Iowa to Guy and Ruth Rosyln (Hinkley). A long-time resident of Edison Park, Illinois, Betty graduated from North Park High School in 1959 and continued on to study at Carroll College. She married Keith McAlhaney on November 19, 1966. Keith and Betty made their home in Park Ridge, Illinois where they raised their children, Kevin and Kristen, before retiring to lake life in Poplar Grove, Illinois. They happily celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2016 prior to Keith’s death. Betty always put church and family first. Introduced by a pastor friend, she and Keith made serving God a priority throughout their lives. She held the position of OAice Manager for nearly 30 years at the First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights. During that time, she was active in choir, United Women in Faith (formerly, UMW), and supported countless other organizations including Appalachian Service Project (ASP) and Public Action to Deliver Shelter (PADS). She was a consistent face that many parishioners and their families counted on as they went from preschool to confirmation to marriage and more. When she moved to new places, she made finding a church community a priority. While living in the Rockford area, Grace United Methodist was her church home. She shared all of her skills and knowledge by helping out in their oAice. A cancer survivor, Betty often volunteered at Swedish American Cancer Center in Rockford. Most recently, she attended FUMC Alvarado in Alvarado, Texas where she assisted with grocery distribution. Throughout her life she found a way to help those around her. She gave her time freely and frequently. When not working in ministry, she spent time with her loved ones – attending her grandchildren’s many events, giving too many treats to the family dogs, and enjoying lunch with friends. Recently, she traveled back home to Chicago, to New Orleans, and to North Carolina to reconnect. She is survived by son, Kevin McAlhaney (Lisa) and daughter, Kristen O’Donnell (Michael). She is also survived by grandchildren Erin and Ryan McAlhaney, and Julie and John O’Donnell, sister, Barbara Iversen (Craig), sister-in-law, Ruth Ann Monroe, and brother-in law, Leland McAlhaney, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Keith, her parents Guy and Ruth, and in-laws, Ralph and Wava McAlhaney, as well as, brother-in-law, Dennis Monroe and sister-in-law, Janet McAlhaney. She will be greatly missed by all. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the FUMC-AH Memorial Fund. Services will be held at First United Methodist Church, 1903 Euclid Avenue, Arlington Heights, IL at 11:00 am on Friday, July 26, 2024. Reception immediately following.
4 Responses
Knowing Betty was a blessing, and words cannot really explain what she meant to those she knew. I was privileged to follow, although brief , in her position at FUMCAH. She guided, trained and counseled me as I learned all she did for all those years. Nobody did it better than Betty!!! After her “retirement” she was a constant volunteer and friend. Many a great Friday lunch at Eros with the crew! Allison, Melinda, Betty, myself, always good laughs were shared!
Rest well in His arms dear lady!
Condolences to the McAlhaney family. Betty was always cheerful and willing to go the extra mile when she worked in the office. We often laughed about both of us having daughters named Lisa. My family will certainly miss her. Hugs and prayers.
My sincere condolences to the McAlhaney family during this difficult time. I’m sending Love and Light with prayers.
I am so sorry for your loss. Kevin you are in my thoughts and prayers and I as read about your mom, I see why you are so special. I am sure she is very proud of you.